Jamil Azar, a journalist who joined Al Jazeera at its inception and was credited with authoring its motto, has died, the Al Jazeera Media Network announced on Sunday, January 4, 2026. He was 89.
In a statement, Al Jazeera Director-General Sheikh Nasser bin Faisal Al Thani confirmed Azar’s death, describing him as a “distinguished linguist” and the creator of the network’s slogan, “The opinion and the other opinion.”
“Jamil Azar leaves behind a remarkable and lasting media legacy, a reputation defined by integrity and excellence, and a deep influence on generations of journalists who learned from him at Al Jazeera and other institutions where he served and helped shape professional standards,” Sheikh Nasser stated.
The statement continued, describing Azar as “a living school of journalism and a trusted reference in editorial practice, the Arabic language, television presentation, and newsroom leadership.” Sheikh Nasser added that Azar was known for his humility and remained committed to Al Jazeera’s values.
Born in 1937 in al-Husn, a town in Irbid, Jordan, Azar began his media career at the BBC’s Arabic Service in 1965. During his tenure at the British broadcaster, which lasted until 1996, he worked as a news translator and presenter. His roles also included producing programs such as Politics Between the Questioner and the Respondent and Arab Affairs in the British Press.
In 1996, Azar joined Al Jazeera for its launch on July 30, becoming one of its original news anchors and presenters for the Arabic channel. He hosted the program The Week in the News during his time with the network. Azar retired from his on-air role in 2011.
