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Is Al Jazeera English Left-Wing or Right-Wing? Political Bias Explained

3 min read
Last Updated: January 2026

Al Jazeera English Overview and Political Bias

Critics often allege that Al Jazeera English reflects the geopolitical interests of the Qatari state, particularly in its regional coverage. While praised for its Global South focus, some observers argue the network exhibits a pro-Palestinian bias and maintains a softer editorial stance toward Qatari domestic policy and regional allies.

Standpoint Assessment
Overall political leaning Center Left
Estimated number of readers 310,000,000
Israel support Pro-Palestinian
Use of loaded / emotional language Medium
Target Audience Global South, internationalist, and activist audiences

Al Jazeera English History

Launched in 2006 as the first English-language news channel based in the Middle East, Al Jazeera English aimed to provide a non-Western perspective on global events. Part of the Doha-based Al Jazeera Media Network, it has grown into a major international broadcaster with bureaus across several continents.

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Who owns Al Jazeera English?

The network is owned by the Al Jazeera Media Network, which receives its primary funding from the government of Qatar. Although the channel asserts its editorial independence through a public charter, many Western analysts characterize it as a state-funded media organization subject to the soft power interests of Doha.

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