Arab League Official Calls for Enhanced Global Solidarity with Palestinian Media Amid Ongoing Violations

 Ambassador Ahmed Rashid Khattabi, Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States and Head of the Media and Communication Sector, on Tuesday called for intensified Arab and international solidarity with Palestinian media outlets, describing the media as a vital front in supporting political, diplomatic, and human rights efforts for the Palestinian cause.

Speaking during the 25th session of the Arab Broadcasting Union (ABU) in Hammamet, Tunisia, Khattabi made his remarks following a presentation by Ahmed Assaf, Supervisor of Palestinian Official Media. He praised the professional role of Palestinian media and reiterated the Arab League’s coordinated support for Palestinian narratives amid escalating violations by Israeli forces.

Khattabi condemned what he described as “grave and systematic violations” committed by the Israeli occupation, including the suppression of Palestinian digital platforms and the targeting of journalists. He highlighted the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, noting that at least 230 journalists have been targeted since October 7, 2023, making the territory one of the most dangerous in the world for media professionals.

Calling the attacks an “unprecedented criminal violation of international law,” Khattabi said the designation of May 11 as the International Day of Solidarity with Palestinian Media sends a powerful message that the Palestinian issue transcends regional borders and appeals to the global conscience.

The ambassador also noted that the Arab League had organized a symposium involving media professionals, diplomats, and academics to counter what he called the “false Israeli narrative.” He pointed to the erosion of this narrative due to the perseverance of Palestinian journalists and growing international scrutiny.

Khattabi referenced resolutions by the Council of Arab Information Ministers supporting the Arab Media Strategy and Action Plan, and welcomed a Palestinian proposal to establish a special international criminal court to prosecute crimes against journalists.