Qatar influence within Western institutions is drawing scrutiny as CNN prepares to co-sponsor next week’s Doha Forum—an event underwritten by the Qatari government and filled with outspoken critics of Israel and U.S. allies. Less than a year after opening a bureau funded by Doha’s rulers, the network will help promote a gathering that features Iranian officials, pro-Tehran advocates, and multiple speakers who accuse Israel of atrocities.
The Doha Forum portrays itself as a platform for global dialogue, with organizers touting “Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress” and a mission to “foster meaningful dialogue.” But Qatar criminalizes criticism of its regime and its flag, and a Jordanian media manager received five years in prison for raising concerns about migrant worker treatment. Featured speakers include Qatari prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani—who has condemned Arab normalization with Israel—interviewed by CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, who claimed in October that Israeli hostages tortured by Hamas were likely treated better than the average Gazan.
Panels will spotlight “Iran and the Changing Regional Security Environment,” asserting Israel “initiated a war against Iran.” The summary omits attacks by Hamas and Hezbollah. Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif, Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti—who accused Israel of a “huge genocide”—and others alleging Israeli “apartheid” will take center stage.
The event comes as CNN expands in Doha’s state-funded Media City. The network says Qatar covers “facilities and technical support” while maintaining editorial independence. Its new show filmed in the Gulf monarchy has not been labeled “sponsored content,” despite Qatar funding a “purpose-built studio.”
The forum will also host longtime NIAC leader Trita Parsi, whom a federal judge noted “was first and foremost an advocate of the regime,” alongside Zarif and suspended Biden envoy Rob Malley.
