The misconstruction of enemy images in war reporting: The insight narratives on Israel-Hamas conflict

Abstract

The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions during conflicts, particularly through the construction of enemy images. In the case of the Israel-Hamas conflict, war reporting has reinforced hostile narratives, contributing to the escalation of violence. With the use of secondary sources of data, this study explores how enemy images are constructed through selective media framing, biased language, and the portrayal of both Israel and Hamas in starkly oppositional terms. By comparing Western, Israeli, Palestinian, and regional media outlets, the study identifies key patterns in the use of emotionally charged narratives, political rhetoric, and imagery. It also highlights the implications of such representations, including the justification of military actions, dehumanisation of the adversary, and the manipulation of international perceptions. Furthermore, the analysis explains the long-term psychological, social, and political implications of these enemy images, emphasising the important need for responsible media reporting in fostering peace and understanding.

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