Hala Sarhan: "The Situation with the Reporter Was Innocent Banter" Hala Sarhan to the Lebanese Reporter: "You’re a Skilled Journalist Because You Insist on Asking"

Egyptian media personality Hala Sarhan did not ignore the controversy following the rapid spread of a video on social media, which showed her in an awkward moment with a young Lebanese reporter at the Arab Media Forum in Beirut.

Sarhan clarified that the incident was misunderstood, emphasizing that the circulated video had been taken out of its original context and turned into material for unjustified controversy.

She explained that the interaction with the reporter was innocent banter, not intended to embarrass anyone, adding: "I hugged the reporter and kissed her and told her: ‘You’re a skilled journalist because you insist on asking.’ So why wasn’t this part shown?"

Her statements came during a panel discussion moderated by journalist Nishan titled “Towards an Arab Media Charter to Support Sustainable Development”, attended by Lebanese Minister of Information Paul Marqus and Forum Secretary General Madi Al-Khamis. The Minister of Information described the incident as a result of editing and excerpting to mislead, noting that media outlets often cut words to create a meaning different from the intended one.

"She Spoke with Her and Hugged Her"

Sarhan added that she spoke with the reporter after the session and hugged her to ease the tension, stressing that the incident serves as an important lesson for young journalists about the need for thorough preparation before going on air, and that proper knowledge and practice are keys to success for any anchor or reporter.