Al-Jazeera Nears Launch of English Language Channel

DOHA, Qatar – Al-Jazeera's ten-year history has not been without controversy or criticism. But the Arabic news network is about to embark on a new chapter when it launches a channel aimed at attracting viewers in the West.

Al-Jazeera International will be an English-language channel with an Arab perspective.The network plans to launch the channel Nov. 15 with the hope of attracting viewers away from the likes of CNN and the BBC.

The new 24-hour news network will be available to at least 40 million households worldwide via cable in Western Europe, the Middle East, Australia, Malaysia and a few other places, said Lindsey Oliver, the station's commercial director.

In the United States, she said, at least one major cable provider and one major satellite provider will carry AJI. Comcast, the largest U.S. cable provider, said it is not one of them.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.