Al Jazeera is currently not part of the Mosaic series. The network is based in Qatar and was launched in 1996. It broadcasts throughout the Middle East and reaches much of the rest of the world. Initially funded by the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Al Jazeera maintains that it is an independent network free from government control and censorship, "offering its audiences in the Arab world much needed freedom of thought, independence, and room for debate."

Today, with more than 30 bureaus and dozens of correspondents providing worldwide coverage, it is considered one of the most important and trusted news sources in the Middle East. Through 24 hour news coverage and a variety of political talk shows, Al Jazeera's programming emphasizes issues of Arab concern like as the Palestinian / Israeli conflict and the war in Iraq.

One of the most popular shows on Al Jazeera is The Opposite Direction, a talk show hosted by Faisal Al Qasim, a Syrian presenter who invites guests with opposing ideologies to debate their views on air. He also invites home viewers to call in and give their opinions or questions.

Al Jazeera
P. O. Box 23123
Doha, Qatar
Telephone: +974 4885 666
Fax: +974 4885 333
Email: [email protected]
English web site: http://english.aljazeera.net