The network, named Alhurra, which means "the free one" in Arabic, is expected to reach viewers in 22 countries.

The U.S. Broadcasting Board of Governors says the service will carry news and information about international and regional developments, as well as features and discussion programs on current events and other topics of interest. BBG Chairman Kenneth Tomlinson says the broadcasts will be operating in a media market that, is "dominated by sensationalism and distortion."