Iraqi children's TV actor Naser al-Sabti dies

BAGHDAD, Iraq — BAGHDAD — Naser al-Sabti, the Iraqi actor known for playing the character "Afritun" on the long-running children's program "Heyla Hop Club," has died, colleagues and fans said. According to a source, al-Sabti appeared alongside host Walid Habbush on the show for years, becoming part of the childhood memories of multiple generations of Iraqi viewers. "Heyla Hop Club" is regarded as one of the most widely watched children's programs on Iraqi television. The program has aired on different channels since the 1990s, and the Afritun character is considered among its most popular figures. Following news of his death, fellow artists and fans posted tributes recalling al-Sabti's work with children and his warm personality. Details on the funeral arrangements were expected to be clarified in the coming hours.