Khaberni - Egyptian media figure Hala Sarhan embarrassed a Lebanese reporter on live air during the Arab Media Forum events in Beirut, in an incident that sparked widespread controversy across social media platforms, after the reporter appeared unaware of the identity of the famous media personality.
The circulating video clip shows the reporter approaching Hala Sarhan saying, "We are on air... I would like to ask, which country are you from?" to which the latter replied with clear astonishment, "No, if you don't know who I am and from which country, then good morning.. aren't you a media professional? Tell me who I am?" indicating her surprise at the reporter's lack of awareness of her identity.
The video ignited strong reactions on social platforms, where opinions were divided between those who saw Hala Sarhan's response as a harsh professional lesson for the reporter, and those who considered the situation to be simple, resulting from the nervousness of a young woman still at the start of her media career.
Many followers criticized the reporter who failed to recognize one of the most prominent media personalities in the Arab world, while others praised Sarhan's composed response and her maintaining calm despite the embarrassing situation.
In subsequent statements, Hala Sarhan explained the details of what happened, affirming that she did not intend to embarrass the reporter, stating: "The girl was nervous, and it seems that she is still at the beginning of her professional career... What happened was an opportunity for her to learn, as a journalist should be prepared even if they do not know the person in front of them."