BBC Launch Emergency Radio Service In Gaza

Press Association via AP Images

BBC World Service unveiled Wednesday it will launch a new emergency radio service for Gaza residents on Wednesday in response to the ongoing conflict.

This initiative, named Gaza Daily, aims to bring critical news updates to Gaza’s residents reflective of their humanitarian needs. The service will be run by BBC News Arabic and promises up-to-date news, developments, and essential safety guidance, including details about shelters and locations for food and water provisions.

At the launch of Gaza Daily, Liliane Landor, Director of BBC World Service, said: “BBC News Arabic are extremely well-placed to offer this vital service for the people of Gaza at a time of greatest need. Their expertise and specialist knowledge of the region, coupled with the BBC’s standing as the most trusted news source, ensures we can provide the essential information to Gaza’s civilians.”

With production hubs in Cairo and London, broadcasts will be transmitted on medium wave radio. Starting Friday, a segment will air at 1500 GMT, with a supplementary update commencing at 0500 GMT from Friday 10 November.

Historically, the BBC World Service has actively responded in this way to global emergencies. In May 2023 BBC News Arabic initiated an emergency radio service amidst the Sudan conflict and in February 2022, in response to the country’s invasion, BBC News Ukraine expanded their bulletins.