Doha: Qatari newspapers on Tuesday highlighted a range of key local, regional, and international issues, with particular emphasis on the State of Qatar's celebration of the 15th National Sports Day, held under the slogan "I Chose Sport." The editorials underscored the importance of encouraging all segments of society to engage in physical activity, promoting the concept of sport for all, and reinforcing its role as a sustainable way of life.
According to Qatar News Agency, the daily newspapers also drew attention to Qatar's ongoing humanitarian efforts worldwide, notably the launch of a humanitarian aid convoy to Sudan by the Qatar Fund for Development, in cooperation with the Qatar Red Crescent Society. This reflects the country's continued commitment to supporting vulnerable communities.
On regional developments, the newspapers addressed the Palestinian issue, focusing on the plan approved by the Israeli Security Cabinet to annex parts of the occupied West Bank. The editorials strongly condemned the Israeli occupation authorities' persistent disregard for international legal obligations, citing continued settlement expansion and the systematic targeting and oppression of the Palestinian people in defiance of international law.
In its editorial titled "National Sports Day," Al-Watan emphasized that the occasion is not limited to highlighting the importance of sports but also aims to broaden public participation in a wide range of sporting activities. The newspaper noted that this is achieved through the organization of inclusive events that allow all members of society to take part, such as running and walking activities, as well as competitions across various sports.
Al-Watan further noted that sport has become an integral part of Qatari culture, driven by the distinguished performances of Qatari athletes at major international sporting events, including the Olympic Games, as well as by the country hosting numerous continental and global tournaments, most notably the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. This is supported by the availability of advanced professional training facilities and world-class sports infrastructure.
The newspaper also highlighted Qatar's achievements in the field of sports medicine, noting that Aspire Academy, established in 2004, has emerged as a leading global institution specializing in sports medicine and orthopedics. The academy, the first of its kind in the Middle East and the Gulf region and accredited by FIFA, provides a comprehensive sporting and academic environment for nurturing a new generation of talented athletes across various disciplines.
Meanwhile, Al-Arab headlined its editorial with the slogan of the 15th National Sports Day, "I Choose Sport," underscoring the importance of sport and its central role in society as an essential component of daily life. The newspaper noted that National Sports Day seeks to raise awareness of the importance of physical health, encourage all members of society to engage in physical activity throughout the year, promote the concept of sport for all, and establish sport as a way of life. It added that the occasion reflects the state's commitment to fostering awareness of the role of sport in achieving a balanced integration between physical and mental well-being.
The editorial further observed that since the first edition of National Sports Day in 2012, ministries, government entities, public institutions, and private sector companies have consistently organized a wide range of sporting activities for employees and the wider public. These initiatives, tailored to suit all age groups and abilities, aim to strengthen awareness of the importance of sport and its positive impact on individuals and society.
Under the headline "Health As a Way of Life," the English-language daily The Peninsula affirmed that the National Sports Day in Qatar is no longer just a date on the calendar. In fact, it has become a reflection of how deeply sport is woven into the country's identity and future vision. The paper noted that since the Amiri Resolution No. (80) of 2011 designated the second Tuesday of February as a national celebration of physical activity, the occasion has grown into a powerful statement that health, sports, and community are national priorities.
The paper added that what makes National Sport Day distinctive is that it goes beyond symbolism. From its first celebration in 2012, the day was designed to address real challenges, particularly the health risks linked to sedentary lifestyles such as heart disease and diabetes. The Peninsula concluded that the National Sports Day serves as a reminder that progress is not measured only by infrastructure or international accolades, but by healthier habits, stronger communities, and a society that understands that physical and mental well-being are foundations for sustainable success.