Morcos convenes emergency meeting with media institutions to uphold responsible reporting
Information Minister Paul Morcos held an emergency meeting with media institutions, convened at his invitation, to discuss media coverage across various outlets amid Lebanon’s current delicate circumstances. The meeting aimed to preserve internal peace and stability and to prevent sectarian or inflammatory rhetoric.
Further meetings are planned with additional media outlets, particularly online platforms.
Today’s gathering included Chairman of the National Media Council Abdel Hadi Mahfouz, Dean of the Press Syndicate Awni al-Kaaki, Head of the Editors Syndicate Joseph Al-Qusaifi, Director General of the Ministry of Information, Dr. Hassan Falha, Chair of the Board and Director General of Tele Liban, Dr. Elissar Naddaf, Radio Lebanon Director Mohammad Gharib, and representatives from print and audiovisual media outlets.
The meeting began with a minute of silence, at the Minister’s request, in honor of the martyrs of the Israeli aggression against Lebanon, particularly journalists, following news of the martyrdom of Mohammad Sherri, Director of Political Programs at Al-Manar TV.
Minister Morcos opened the meeting by expressing his gratitude to media professionals, syndicate leaders, directors-general, editors-in-chief, news directors, and all officials from the Ministry of Information and public and private media institutions. He said: Thank you for attending and responding to this invitation during this exceptionally challenging time, when Lebanon faces mounting pressures and responsibilities are greater than ever, especially amid ongoing Israeli aggression and its severe repercussions for our country and its people.
He continued: We meet today out of a deep belief in the crucial national role of the media, not only in reporting news but also in protecting society, safeguarding stability, and raising public awareness. In times of hardship, tragedy, and war, the media is not merely a conveyor of information; it is a partner in national responsibility and a spotlight on the needs of our people, including those displaced by conflict.
Minister Morcos emphasized the need for calm and prudence: Lebanon’s current situation demands wisdom and foresight. Each of us, in our respective positions, must act to reduce tensions, prevent unrest, and avoid deepening divisions. Words can reassure and guide, but if misused, they can fuel discord and fragmentation. We trust that you will uphold the highest standards of professional and national responsibility in reporting events.
He further stressed: The Ministry of Information remains fully committed to freedom of opinion, expression, and the press, rights that are protected and guaranteed. At the same time, these freedoms carry responsibility, particularly during critical periods when the national interest must come first.
Minister Morcos concluded: We rely on your patriotism, professional expertise, and ethical commitment. We trust that you will continue to be at the forefront of those who protect Lebanon with truthful, courageous, and responsible reporting. Let us work together to ensure that our media strengthens national unity rather than fuels division. I also plan to meet in the coming days with colleagues from online outlets and those who could not attend today. Lebanon is a responsibility we all share, let us rise above minor differences for the sake of our nation’s greater values. Long live Lebanon, with its free and responsible media.
