Is The 961 a Credible News Source? Bias, Accuracy, and Trust Signals
The 961 Overview and Political Bias
Observers describe The 961 as a modern alternative to Lebanon's sectarian media, often focusing on secular and civil society perspectives. While it is praised for accessibility, some critics argue it occasionally prioritizes viral content and sensationalist headlines. Its reporting is frequently characterized as reflecting the viewpoints of the Lebanese diaspora.
| Standpoint | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Overall political leaning | Center |
| Estimated number of readers | 2,000,000 |
| Israel support | Pro-Palestine / Lebanon-centric |
| Use of loaded / emotional language | Medium |
| Target Audience | Lebanese Diaspora and Mass Market |
The 961 History
Established in 2016 by Anthony Kantara, The 961 began as a niche blog focusing on Lebanese culture. It evolved into a leading English-language news outlet, gaining significant international recognition for its coverage of the 2019 October Revolution, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the aftermath of the 2020 Beirut port explosion.
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Who owns The 961?
The 961 is privately owned and was founded by Anthony Kantara. It operates as an independent media organization, reportedly funded through digital advertising, brand partnerships, and commercial ventures. The outlet maintains a stance of political independence, claiming no affiliation with any of Lebanon's traditional political parties or sectarian groups.