Dr. Abdul Majeed Suwailem: Al-Quds' long-standing success is not only due to financial factors, but also the result of a close relationship and mutual trust between the newspaper and its audience.

Talal Okal: The newspaper, which bears the name, identity, and narrative of Jerusalem, has defied the rapid technological developments that have swept away many print publications.

Nabhan Khreisha: The newspaper chronicled Palestinian events and daily life under occupation and became an indispensable source for researchers.

Nujoud Al-Qassem: "Al-Quds" is distinguished by its consistent visual identity, which reflects its sobriety and professionalism, in addition to its credibility in presenting diverse content.

Dr. Aqel Salah: "Jerusalem" was a source of inspiration for prisoners in the occupation's prisons, and they felt it was the "cultural and national spirit that connected them to the outside world."

Muhammad Joda: Al-Quds newspaper is a bridge between the past and the present and a living memory that documents the Palestinian pulse in all its manifestations.

Thaer Thabet: "Jerusalem" was a narrative of a homeland and a fragrant scent emanating from between the lines, reflecting the memory of the Palestinian people and the details of their daily lives.

Murad Al-Sabaa: Al-Quds newspaper's digital presence has strengthened its position amid the significant decline in print journalism worldwide.

For nearly 74 years, the Jerusalem-based newspaper Al-Quds has continued to weave its story with the Palestinian conscience, not only as a media platform, but also as a daily companion that accompanies readers through the details of their lives, from their first mornings to their daily preoccupations. Preserving its identity despite technological advancements, the newspaper reached its 20,000th circulation on Thursday.

Despite the changes of time and the advancement of technology, "Al-Quds" has remained present in some cafes, offices, and homes. Eyes gaze upon its letters and hearts cling to them as an authentic voice reflecting the pulse of the Palestinian street, according to what readers, writers, political analysts, and journalists confirmed in separate conversations with Al-Quds.

They say that at a time when the world is witnessing the decline of print journalism in the face of the digital media's advance, Al-Quds has succeeded in preserving its standing thanks to its credibility and professionalism, and its historical and cultural roots in the Palestinian cause. Moreover, its daily presence has never been merely a habit, as important as it is, but rather a reflection of a relationship of trust and a mirror of the memory of a people for whom the word and its documentation remain a form of steadfastness.

Hajj Yassin Al-Saadi: Half a Century of Loyalty to Al-Quds Newspaper

For more than half a century, Hajj Yassin al-Saadi, known as Abu Samer, has not spent a single morning without reading Al-Quds newspaper.

In his tailor shop in the center of Jenin, his daily ritual begins with opening the newspaper and reading it from the first page to the last. If he doesn't have time while working, he takes it home to catch up on what he missed.

Hajj Yassin Al-Saadi, who is over eighty years old, says: “Reading the newspaper is a daily habit. I can’t start my day without it. When I’m busy sewing clothes for customers, you find my guests turning the pages instead of me.”

Abu Samer Al-Saadi recalls the glory days of the venerable print newspaper Al-Quds, which used to be a large, limited-page publication, describing it as a "volume." He laments the current situation, with its fewer pages. Despite this, he still clings to the newspaper and continues to follow it. He says, "Despite its small number of pages today, I continue to follow it and read it."

Mamoun Abu Hamdieh: I start my morning with a cup of coffee and Al-Quds newspaper.

For his part, Mamoun Abu Hamdieh, a young man from Ramallah and an avid reader, makes sure to start his day with an unchanging ritual: a hot cup of coffee and Al-Quds newspaper.

For Mamoun, in his mid-thirties, no morning is complete without flipping through the pages of the newspaper, which he considers more than just a source of news, but an authentic Palestinian heritage that must be preserved.

Mamoun says, "For me, Al-Quds newspaper represents a daily connection to the nation's issues. It is the collective memory that preserves the pulse of the Palestinian street and conveys its daily concerns and details."

Mamoun asserts that over the past years, Al-Quds newspaper has proven its position as one of the most important media outlets in Palestine, serving as a primary and reliable source for reporting news from the Palestinian public, despite the rapidly evolving events and complex political landscape.

Abu Hamdieh believes that over time, the newspaper has not lost its stature despite the major changes that have occurred in the media landscape, as Jerusalem remains a prominent and indispensable part of the Palestinian fabric.

Ayman Abdel Latif: A passion for paper and memories of youth

Despite the digital transformations that have changed the face of journalism, Al-Quds newspaper continues to represent an emotional space and a daily memory for many readers, as Ayman Abdel Latif, who has been associated with the newspaper since his university years some 25 years ago, recounts.

Abdul Latif says, "I've been reading Al-Quds newspaper daily for many years. While I don't buy it as much as I used to, I don't let a day go by without browsing it, whether on the website or in PDF files." For Ayman, reading the newspaper wasn't a passing habit, but rather a daily ritual that had accompanied him since the beginning of his university studies.

He recalls his beginnings, saying, "Since I was in my first year of university, I used to go to the university library every day just to browse Al-Quds. Later, at my workplace, we received the newspaper every day, and I used to make sure to read it before the start of the school day."

This daily relationship has transformed over time into a digital form, but nostalgia for the past still haunts Ayman, who says, "Technological advancements have changed the way we access newspapers, but holding the paper still brings a special passion and unparalleled pleasure."

Ayman Abdel Latif sees Al-Quds more than just a newspaper, but a friend who has carried his memories and concerns since his youth. "We have memories with it... During some painful events, we followed the details through it, and we carried them with us everywhere," he says.

Even at pivotal moments in his life, Jerusalem was present, as Ayman recalls: “When I graduated from university, I would check the job listings there every day, looking for a job opportunity, even though many companies were posting their advertisements there.”

Amani Khalil: "Jerusalem" is part of a personal and family memory.

Although Amani Khalil isn't a daily reader of Al-Quds newspaper, her relationship with it carries a special emotional dimension, linked to her memories of her late father, who made sure to buy the newspaper and bring it home every day, creating a family ritual that remains etched in her memory.

Amani recounts: “I didn’t browse Al-Quds newspaper daily, but I have fond memories of it. My father, may God have mercy on him, used to buy the newspaper regularly, and I was young at the time.”

Amani adds, "Even during my university days, I would read it when my father brought it home, and I still remember those moments as cherished memories, not only with the newspaper, but with my father as well."

For Amani, Al-Quds newspaper represents more than just a news outlet; it is part of a personal and family memory, linked to morning scenes and the warmth of daily gatherings in the family home.

As time has passed, Amani's way of following the news has changed, but she hasn't lost her respect for the status of print journalism. She says, "Currently, I browse the news online and on social media, but I believe that print newspapers remain an unforgettable legacy."

Amani highlights the importance of considering new ways to preserve this legacy and calls on those in charge of print newspapers to seek financing solutions that ensure their continuity in the digital media era.

Amani points out that "the way news and reports are presented could be one of the things that could be developed to keep pace with the times and retain its readers."

A milestone in the history of Palestinian journalism

For his part, writer and political analyst Dr. Abdul Majeed Sweilem believes that Al-Quds's 20,000th issue represents a milestone in the history of Palestinian journalism. It reflects the newspaper's deep-rooted roots in the Palestinian collective consciousness and its continuity over decades despite challenges, both financial and political. This demonstrates the newspaper's solid foundations, enabling it to endure and remain influential.

Suwailem explains that Al-Quds' long-standing success is not solely due to financial factors, but rather, more importantly, is the product of a close relationship and mutual trust between the newspaper and its audience.

"Anyone who follows the evolution of the media realizes that just as people become accustomed to a radio station or television channel, they become accustomed to a particular newspaper," Suwailem says. "This habit develops into something resembling an addiction, with some readers only feeling content after reading Al-Quds. This in itself is a true testament to the newspaper's place in the Palestinian consciousness."

An authentic Palestinian voice facing the challenges of time

Suwailem points out that this association is not a courtesy, but rather a tangible reality, emphasizing that what distinguishes the newspaper is its diligent and constant monitoring of citizens' daily issues and its immersion in the details of Palestinian concerns, which has strengthened people's sense that it belongs to them as they belong to it.

"This deep relationship, built over many years and reflected in the newspaper's continuity, is a badge of pride for us. It is a dedicated and recognized social relationship," Suwailem says.

Suwailem points out that Al-Quds newspaper has managed to maintain its legacy despite the transformations taking place in the world of journalism, saying, "Had the newspaper not been so well-established and well-established, it would not have been able to endure and continue, especially in light of the financial crises and global decline facing print journalism."

Suwailem points out that one of the secrets to Al-Quds's continued success is its ability to maintain a strong relationship with its audience, a relationship that has formed the foundation of its long media career and enables it to remain an authentic Palestinian voice in the face of the challenges of time, technology, and occupation.

The secret to survival is a deep connection to Jerusalem.

For his part, writer and political analyst Talal Okal asserts that the Al-Quds newspaper's journey and continuity are a symbol of the resilience of Palestinian identity in the face of technological and political challenges.

Awkal emphasizes that the newspaper, which bears the name, identity, and narrative of Jerusalem, deserves all the pride and admiration for defying the era of rapid technological developments that have swept away many print publications.

Awkal explains that the primary reason for its continued existence is its deep connection to Jerusalem, as if by its continuity it is affirming the holy city's continued existence as a Palestinian city, defying plans to alter its identity, affiliation, and history.

Okal emphasizes that the credit for this achievement also goes to the scholars, intellectuals, writers, journalists, and correspondents who carried the newspaper's banner and its enlightening message. These individuals preserved the newspaper's identity and its role as a media beacon, adhering to its principles of documenting the Palestinian narrative and conveying the voice of Jerusalem to the world.

Awkal points out that every letter, picture, drawing, or effort made to protect and sustain the newspaper represents a contribution to defending the Palestinian cause.

Awkal extends a special tribute to everyone who has contributed to the newspaper's journey, emphasizing that Al-Quds newspaper is not merely a media outlet, but rather a national symbol that embodies the resistance to marginalization and cultural erasure.

Awkal calls for the continuation of this pioneering role, so that the newspaper remains a voice defending Palestinian rights, rooted in Jerusalem's heritage and looking forward to the future of free media.

A fundamental pillar of the Palestinian media landscape

For his part, journalist Nabhan Khreisheh asserts that Al-Quds newspaper has been a fundamental pillar of the Palestinian media landscape under Israeli occupation, preserving national identity through its comprehensive coverage of political, social, and cultural events and its support for the Palestinian people's struggle against the occupation.

Khreisha explains that Al-Quds newspaper, founded in 1951 and considered the oldest Palestinian newspaper, served as a vital media bridge connecting Palestinians in the West Bank, Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip, and the diaspora, especially before the spread of the internet, by accurately and comprehensively reporting news from various regions.

Khreisheh points out that the newspaper faced harsh conditions due to the strict Israeli military censorship imposed on all press publications in Jerusalem prior to 1993. Despite these restrictions, Al-Quds succeeded in striking a delicate balance between reporting the truth and avoiding closure, strengthening its position as a key platform for Palestinian intellectuals and writers.

Khreisha asserts that the newspaper provided a space for public debate, publishing articles and analyses by politicians and intellectuals that contributed to shaping the political and cultural awareness of Palestinian society, making it an influential voice in promoting national identity.

Enhanced online presence required

Khreisheh emphasizes the newspaper's documentary role, which has chronicled Palestinian events since its founding, including the 1967 setback, the uprisings, negotiations, and Israeli attacks, as well as its documentation of daily life under occupation. This documentation has made Jerusalem an indispensable source for researchers and writers interested in Palestinian history. Despite political and censorship challenges, the newspaper has maintained its continuity for decades, reflecting the depth of its roots and the strength of its presence.

However, Khreisha warns of the current challenges facing Al-Quds newspaper, particularly with the rise of online media and the new generation's preference for faster digital platforms. To overcome this obstacle, the newspaper seeks to keep pace with the digital age through an integrated strategy that combines preserving its traditional identity with embracing digital transformation.

Khreisha recommends enhancing online presence through smartphone apps for Android and iPhone, search engine optimization (SEO), and active engagement on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Khreisheh calls for the production of diverse digital content, such as video reports, podcasts, and interactive stories, with a focus on in-depth and objective coverage of Palestinian issues, linking local and international contexts to enhance credibility in the face of the information chaos on the internet and social media platforms.

Balance between professional and national line

Journalist Nujoud Al-Qassem emphasizes the importance of Al-Quds newspaper's pioneering role in preserving Palestinian national identity. Its continued publication of a print edition, its diverse content, and its professional and credible coverage of the Palestinian cause have made it a solid media icon since its first issue in 1951, continuing through its current circulation of 20,000.

Al-Qassem explains that Jerusalem has provided a vital platform for spreading national awareness, defying the strict Israeli censorship it faced under the occupation, while maintaining a balance between professional and nationalist approaches.

Al-Qassem asserts that Al-Quds' journey has not been easy, as it has overcome the challenges of censorship and harsh political conditions to become the voice and image of the Palestinian people, especially during a sensitive period when the occupation has realized the danger the media poses to its settlement project.

Al-Qassim points out that the newspaper has published 20,000 issues, representing a massive archive of reports, stories, and photos that tell the story of the Palestinian cause and document the suffering of Palestinians and the policies of the occupation, making it an indispensable reference for researchers and scholars.

Al-Qassem asserts that Jerusalem has witnessed remarkable development in recent times, through a variety of topics, improved editing, and attractive headlines, which has strengthened its position in the Palestinian press.

However, according to Al-Qassim, the newspaper today faces strong competition from digital media and television, making modernization an urgent necessity to preserve its long history.

Her website needs interactive content.

Al-Qassim asserts that the continuation of the print edition reflects the long history of Al-Quds newspaper, especially as international media organizations have abandoned print publication, while the newspaper has maintained this relationship as part of its documentation role.

Al-Qassim points out that Al-Quds newspaper is distinguished by its consistent visual identity, including its logo, design, and colors, which reflect its sobriety and professionalism, as well as its credibility in providing diverse content that can be easily distinguished from others.

Despite its digital transformation while maintaining its editorial policy, Al-Qassim emphasizes the need for her website to include interactive content such as videos, infographics, and podcasts to attract young people who prefer images and short videos.

Al-Qassem explains that this development requires significant financial investments to compete with digital media, which is backed by vast resources. However, she notes that this development is essential to reaching new generations and preserving Jerusalem's audience.

Al-Qassem calls on the Al-Quds newspaper's management to continue combining its tradition with its modernity, while emphasizing professional and national standards, to remain an influential Palestinian voice defending rights in an age of information chaos.

"Jerusalem" is an icon of steadfastness and a national lever.

For his part, writer and political researcher Dr. Aqel Salah asserts that Al-Quds newspaper represents a unique model of national and media resilience, having maintained its presence and continuity despite 74 years of challenges and harsh occupation practices since its founding. He commended its continuous contributions in the national, political, cultural, and media arenas.

Salah said, "Al-Quds newspaper, its entire management, its current and former editors-in-chief, and its staff salute you for your steadfastness and continued distinguished contributions, despite the insane targeting of the city of Jerusalem and its institutions. You are the owners of the right, the voice, and the word, the national media discourse that emanates from the ancient alleys of Jerusalem."

Salah adds, "Al-Quds is not just a newspaper. It is a major national media institution, troubling the occupation because it is one of the few media institutions still operating from the heart of the city, carrying the name of Jerusalem to the world. It is the beating heart of Jerusalem and a political and cultural media message that must continue to defend the Palestinian cause."

A corner of Jerusalem and a symbol of steadfastness

Salah points out that Al-Quds newspaper was accessible to prisoners in occupation prisons, and they felt it was "the cultural, political, and national spirit that connected them to the outside world." He calls for keeping pace with developments and continually improving its performance in order to continue its role in confronting the occupation.

Salah explains that the launch of Al-Quds newspaper in 1951 was linked to Palestinian nationalist activism following the 1948 Nakba. The newspaper bore the name "The Holiest Spot in Palestine and the World," and was associated with the ancient history of the holy city. He emphasizes that the newspaper has been, and continues to be, a national and cultural lever in the political struggle against the occupation's settlement projects.

Despite the challenges posed by technological advancements and digital media, Salah asserts that Al-Quds newspaper maintains its presence and credibility through the development of its print edition, website, and high-quality editorial content that objectively covers the issues of the Palestinian people, particularly national and political issues.

He called on the newspaper's editors to preserve this great national heritage, while also calling on official Palestinian institutions to support the newspaper as "a pillar of Jerusalem and a symbol of steadfastness." He emphasized that "supporting Al-Quds newspaper is support for Jerusalem itself and for the city's components, which are confronting the occupation's schemes by all means."

A milestone in the journey of free Palestinian media

For his part, writer and political analyst Mohammed Joda said that the celebration of the 20,000th issue of Al-Quds, one of the oldest Palestinian newspapers, is a historic event that represents a significant milestone in the journey of free Palestinian media.

Joudah affirms that this achievement is "a testament to the continuity and deep commitment to the national media's mission in confronting challenges."

Joudah explains that this number is not merely a statistic, but rather the embodiment of a long history of media work that combines the authenticity of print journalism with the modernity of digital publishing.

Joudeh points out that Al-Quds newspaper, established as the oldest Palestinian newspaper, has been able to preserve its heritage by adhering to three fundamental pillars: credibility, professionalism, and national affiliation. It has also successfully navigated the digital transformation experience with professionalism without abandoning its original identity, language, or editorial principles.

Joudeh describes Al-Quds newspaper as "a bridge between the past and the present" and "a living memory that documents the Palestinian pulse in all its manifestations." He asserts that the secret to its survival lies in its ability to keep pace with the times while adhering to its national roots.

Joudeh paid tribute to the newspaper's journalistic and administrative staff, and to everyone who contributed to cementing the newspaper's presence in the consciousness of Palestinians and Arabs, expressing his pride in everyone who has carried the message since its founding.

Joudeh emphasizes the newspaper's role as a media beacon that continues to persevere and excel, calling for greater creativity and influence in serving the Palestinian cause.

A novel about a homeland, not just paper and ink

As the 20,000th issue of Al-Quds newspaper is published, journalist Thaer Thabet, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education's educational media official, recalls the special feelings he has associated with the newspaper, which has accompanied him since the beginning of his career and continues to this day as a reader and daily follower.

Thabet, who has a special love for numbers and the language of arithmetic, says, "The 20,000-page documented issue of the newspaper draws me back to memories and stories of this ancient newspaper, with which I began as a volunteer, then a reporter, and finally a columnist while studying journalism and media in Nablus."

Thabet adds, "The euphoria I felt when my name was first published in a report in Al-Quds newspaper, nearly 20 years ago, is immeasurable. It was an exceptional moment that connected me emotionally to the newspaper, just as it is connected to the emotions of all Palestinians."

Thabet says, "Jerusalem, the spiritual and religious capital of Palestine, is linked in our memories to the newspaper, which was not just paper and ink, but rather a narrative of a homeland, a fragrant scent emanating from between the lines, reflecting the memory of the Palestinian people and the details of their daily lives."

Thabet acknowledges that print journalism faces significant challenges in light of the digital media boom, but he commends Al-Quds' ability to balance print, website, and digital (PDF) versions, emphasizing that it has been able to maintain its presence and a consistent name in the media landscape.

Thaer Thabet looks to the future, saying, "On this day, as the 20,000th issue of Al-Quds is published, I congratulate it on its survival and renewal. We all hope that the day will come when the newspaper will feature a headline that says, 'Jerusalem is Liberated.' This is the dream of every Palestinian: to see these headlines translated into print, in the newspaper we love."

A story of resilience in the face of challenges

Journalist Murad Al-Sabaa says that reaching the 20,000th issue of Al-Quds is a national and historic achievement for Palestinian journalism, reflecting the resilience of this venerable media institution in the face of political and technical challenges, particularly in light of the unprecedented escalation currently taking place in Palestine in the West Bank and Gaza Strip due to the ongoing Israeli aggression.

Al-Saba' explains that since its launch, Al-Quds newspaper has enjoyed a broad public reach across Palestine, particularly during periods of intifadas, and has contributed profoundly to deepening Palestinian national sentiment and enhancing awareness of the Palestinian cause.

Al-Sabaa says, "This number – 20,000 – comes at a critical time for the Palestinian cause, especially the war of extermination, and confirms the newspaper's continued role as a national voice that reflects the concerns of the Palestinian people, documents the history of the Palestinian cause, and is emotionally connected to the eternal capital, Jerusalem."

The importance of Al-Quds newspaper transcends geographical boundaries.

Al-Saba' points out that Al-Quds newspaper remains the leading print newspaper in Palestine, and is a key source of accurate news and analysis for the older generation of parents and grandparents, who lack experience using social media. He says, "The newspaper is distinguished by its high professionalism and accuracy in reporting news, which makes it a reliable source for a wide segment of the Palestinian public."

Al-Saba' points out that the importance of Al-Quds newspaper transcends geographical borders, as its name is deeply linked to Palestinian awareness in the diaspora. Furthermore, it is marketed externally through digital versions and provides its content via a modern website, providing an opportunity for a wide audience interested in following developments in Palestinian affairs. He asserts that its digital presence has strengthened its position in light of the significant decline in print journalism worldwide.

Al-Saba' affirms that the continued existence of Al-Quds newspaper holds great symbolic and national value in Palestinian memory, as it represents the foundation of national awareness and the true expression of the Palestinian cause. He emphasizes the need to support it as a media pillar that continues to fulfill its mission despite the many challenges.