The Bayt Mal Al-Quds Al-Sharif Agency successfully concluded a significant high-level panel discussion in Rabat, Morocco, on June 23, 2026, under the theme "Jerusalem: A Global Narrative for Peace." This event was part of the broader celebrations of Rabat being designated as the Arab Media Capital for 2026, following a resolution from the 55th session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers held on November 26, 2025. The discussions, which took place over two days, were co-organized with the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, highlighting the critical issues surrounding Jerusalem and Palestine.
During the panel, the prominent role of Morocco, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, who also chairs the Al-Quds Committee, was emphasized. His efforts to foster dialogue on humanitarian and civilizational matters, particularly regarding Jerusalem and Palestine, were acknowledged by various dignitaries present at the event. The panel included ministers from Morocco and Palestine, as well as representatives from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the League of Arab States, and various media organizations.
The final statement issued by the participants expressed appreciation for the initiative of the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Al-Sharif Agency and highlighted the importance of the Arab media's role in advocating for the Palestinian right to establish a state within the boundaries defined before the 1967 war, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The statement urged a shift in the media narrative towards a proactive stance that resonates with Western audiences, emphasizing values such as unity, justice, and peace.
Furthermore, the participants called for a strategic focus on the spiritual and civilizational significance of Jerusalem, advocating for media campaigns that reflect its historical and cultural importance. The statement called for better financial and logistical resources to create diverse media content that showcases the resilience and aspirations of the Palestinian people. This content should be accessible across various digital platforms to counter negative narratives prevalent in international media.
Another critical aspect discussed was the need for a unified Arab reference document that standardizes terminology related to the Palestinian cause and Jerusalem. This document is intended to be adopted by relevant Arab bodies and promoted within international institutions. Participants also supported the creation of a unified Arab media platform, which would serve as a reliable source for data and studies related to media's influence on Western audiences, particularly in the context of the Palestinian issue.
Moreover, the panel participants expressed gratitude towards Morocco for its hospitality and organizational efforts, affirming their commitment to translating the discussion outcomes into actionable programs that support the Palestinian cause. Minister Ahmad Assaf, who oversees Official Palestinian Media, unveiled plans to formalize the idea of a "Charter on the Media Status and the Narrative on Jerusalem and Palestine," aiming to present it at the next Council of Arab Information Ministers meeting in Libya.
Minister Assaf underscored the significance of narrative in contemporary conflicts, noting how the Israeli narrative gained traction in the wake of recent conflicts. However, he praised the efforts of Palestinian media in regaining control of the narrative and effectively communicating the truth of events to the international community, which spurred widespread demonstrations in support of Palestine across the globe.
In conclusion, the panel reinforced the necessity of continued collaboration among Arab media institutions to enhance the representation of the Palestinian narrative, emphasizing the ongoing struggle against oppression and the importance of solidarity with the people of Jerusalem and Palestine.
As reported by english.wafa.ps.
