The Arab Media Forum kicked off on a high note with a panel discussion on the impact of the US elections on the Middle East. The session, titled ‘Media Perspective: Impact of US Elections on the Region’, delved into the significant ramifications of this election year, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Moderated by TV anchor Naoufer Ramoul from Dubai Media, the panel featured esteemed experts in the field – Dr. Raghida Dergham, Dr. Mohammad Al Rumaihi, and Abdel Latif El Menawy. The discussion shed light on the key factors influencing the US elections, with a focus on immigration as a primary concern for American voters.
Dr. Mohammad Al Rumaihi emphasized the importance of maintaining positive relations between the US and countries in the Arab world, particularly in the GCC region. He highlighted that differences in views do not necessarily translate to enmity and that strong ties between the two regions must be preserved.
Abdel Latif El Menawy noted that while American policy tends to remain consistent regardless of the President, President Trump’s tenure has brought about significant changes. The US withdrawal from the region has created a vacuum that poses challenges for countries in the wider region, prompting them to closely monitor developments.
Dr. Raghida Dergham echoed similar sentiments, stating that US relations with the Arab world are likely to remain unchanged regardless of the election outcome. She criticized the media, particularly US media, for its laziness and bias, calling for more coverage based on ground realities and facts rather than sensationalism.
The panelists also touched upon the evolving media landscape, noting that the younger generation in the US is increasingly influenced by social media platforms like TikTok rather than traditional media. This shift could potentially lead to protest votes, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The insights shared during the panel discussion underscored the complex dynamics at play in the relationship between the US and the Arab world. As the US gears up for a crucial election year, the implications for the Middle East are significant, and countries in the region are closely watching the developments unfold.
Overall, the first day of the Arab Media Forum set the stage for engaging discussions on the intersection of media, politics, and international relations, highlighting the interconnectedness of global events and their impact on the Middle East. As the forum continues, attendees can expect more insightful conversations and thought-provoking analyses on the pressing issues facing the region.