The Arab literary community was deeply shocked yesterday, Sunday, March 8, 2026, by the passing of Iraqi writer and translator Latifa Al-Dulaimi at the age of 86.

Literary and cultural pages across the Arab world were filled with news and articles mourning the writer, highlighting aspects of her works, literary achievements, and translations.

Many writers also posted tributes to her on their platforms, while cultural media described her as “a great loss to Arab culture.”

The writer Mohsen Al-Ramli wrote:

“Very sad news: the passing of the great Iraqi writer, translator, intellectual, and dear friend, Latifa Al-Dulaimi.

A great loss that will be difficult to replace. Her imprint on our culture will remain eternal.

Thank you for everything you gave us. May her soul rest in mercy and peace, and my deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.”

The writer Al-Hussein Muafa wrote:

“May God have mercy on the distinguished Iraqi translator Latifa Al-Dulaimi, who was very close to us in this world, and whom neither arrogance nor pride ever touched despite being an important writer, novelist, and translator.

Mercy and eternal peace to your soul.”

Writer and critic Dalal Al-Khalidi said:

“Latifa Al-Dulaimi has departed. She was one of the prominent cultural voices, combining in her career the novel, short story, translation, journalism, and literary criticism. She remained a sincere advocate for women’s issues and intellectual freedoms, leaving behind numerous works that are regarded as references in literary studies.

May God grant her abundant mercy.”

Writer and novelist Ahmed Al-Samari focused on the literary legacy of the late writer, writing:

“In farewell to one of the great figures of Arab culture,

Latifa Al-Dulaimi has departed,

the Iraqi novelist, translator, and journalist, at the age of 86, leaving behind a profound literary and human legacy.

She also left a distinctive creative and cultural heritage, in which she blended writing, journalism, translation, and the defense of women’s rights and intellectual freedoms.

Through her novels, stories, and translations, she presented a unique perspective on the reality of women and society, making freedom of thought and language a bridge to the depths of human experience. Her works remained a reference for readers and researchers, and her influence continues to live on in the memory of Arabic literature.

With her passing, the Iraqi and Arab cultural scene loses one of its most forthright and sincere voices, a voice that reminds us that the free word is capable of illuminating the dark places within hearts and societies.

She walked with words as mothers walk with their children:

With caution, with love, and with the belief that no matter how dark the road becomes, it always leads to a free idea.

In her eyes, Iraq remained.

And in her writings, woman remained standing.

May you rest in God’s mercy, Latifa Al-Dulaimi.