Batna: The sixth edition of the Imedghassen International Film Festival (IIFF) is underway in Batna, eastern Algeria, with 50 short films from 26 countries vying for the festival's top awards. Italy is the guest of honour at the event, which features official competitions for short fiction, short documentary, and animated films. Participating nations include host country Algeria, Palestine, Tunisia, Trkiye, Brazil, Germany, and South Africa, with a strong showing of works exploring humanitarian and social themes. Throughout the festival, audiences are attending feature film screenings at the Aur¨s Cinema in the city centre.

According to Oman News Agency, Imedghassen serves as a genuine platform for cinematic creatives to exchange ideas and expertise, while also showcasing Algeria's authentic cultural heritage through the universal language of cinema. A diverse training programme for young people is running alongside the festival, covering acting, directing, and documentary filmmaking, led by field specialists. Workshops to discover young talent are also taking place, alongside seminars on 'Cinema and the Novel' and a symposium on 'Imedghassen and History.'

Exploratory tours to several archaeological sites in the region, including the ancient city of Timgad, are planned with festival guests including artists, directors, and media representatives. The festival's opening days have drawn large crowds, bringing vitality to the heart of Batna. Workshops at the Mohamed Laid Al Khalifa Cultural House have attracted cinema enthusiasts, while film screenings are followed by discussion sessions with industry specialists.