Media narratives of the war: King Saud University experts analyze the scene
A group of leading Saudi experts and academics affirmed during a specialized scientific symposium held at King Saud University that media narratives of war are no longer merely a reflection of events on the ground, but have transformed into a key player and strategic tool in shaping the balance of power and managing modern conflicts. This came during a symposium organized by the Dr. Ibrahim Al-Muhanna Chair for Energy and Specialized Media, and moderated by journalist Abdullah bin Shadid, entitled "Media Narratives… The American-Israeli-Iranian War." The symposium highlighted how the media has transcended its traditional role as a neutral conduit, becoming instead a weapon that directs public opinion and shapes decisions.
The historical roots and evolution of media narratives of war
To understand the current situation, it is essential to consider the broader context and historical background of the events. Historically, the media has played a pivotal role in shaping the course of conflicts in the Middle East, from conventional warfare to fourth- and fifth-generation warfare, which relies heavily on propaganda and psychological warfare. In past decades, media narratives were constructed slowly through newspapers and radio broadcasts, but with the digital revolution and the emergence of social media platforms, the formation and deconstruction of narratives now occur in real time. This historical development has transformed complex conflicts, such as the ongoing tensions between the United States and Israel on one side, and Iran on the other, into fertile ground for the exchange of veiled messages, as each country seeks to impose its own narrative to justify its military and political actions before the international community.
Economic repercussions and disruption to energy markets
In this context, Dr. Ibrahim Al-Muhanna, advisor to the Minister of Energy, explained the close and strong correlation between oil prices and the media, noting that this link becomes even more important and sensitive during political and military crises. He added that the media, in all its forms, has become the compass guiding the market and prices, pointing to the rapid fluctuations witnessed in energy markets with the start of the American attack on Iran on February 28th. Al-Muhanna indicated that the ambiguity of information led to fragmented media coverage and weak, sound oil analysis, warning of the continued repercussions of the war on oil for years to come. He also noted the emergence of non-Arab media outlets that attracted large numbers of followers, at a time when most Arab media, both print and broadcast, were not up to the task.
Strategic importance and impact of the conflict on the international stage
These analyses are of paramount importance given the anticipated impact of the event at the local, regional, and international levels. Regionally, these narratives are reshaping alliances and affecting the stability of the entire region. Internationally, they are contributing to a shift in how people and governments perceive the major powers. For his part, former Deputy Minister of Information, Dr. Abdulaziz bin Salma, affirmed that the American-Israeli war on Iran is unprecedented, as it was waged without prior consultation with NATO allies. Bin Salma revealed that European media coverage focused on security and economic concerns, noting a growing sense of betrayal among Europeans and a decline in trust in the United States. He also addressed the repercussions of the Gaza war on the Israeli narrative, making an exception for the Spanish position, which refused to provide facilities for American forces and described Israel as responsible for igniting the war.
Western coverage varied, and threats were redefined
For his part, Dr. Ibrahim Al-Baiz, Head of the Media Department at King Saud University, observed that the American media initially relied on the official narrative before signs of deviating from it emerged and voices opposing the war grew louder. Al-Baiz compared the American approach, which stems from a local perspective seeking domestic repercussions, with the British media, which focuses on the international dimension and the suffering of those targeted on the ground. In the same vein, Professor Mutlaq Al-Mutairi, Professor of Political Media at King Saud University, emphasized that the Israeli narrative directed at the West redefines the Iranian threat to transcend geography and politics. Al-Mutairi concluded that this narrative serves to legitimize military action and solidify Israel's position as a security ally, considering it an advanced model for managing perceptions within the context of contemporary conflict.
Iran's double-speak strategy
In a related context, Dr. Meshal Al-Waeel, a faculty member in the Department of Media, affirmed that Iran has employed two distinct narratives: one to mobilize domestic public opinion, and the other targeting international and Arab audiences. The digital media specialist explained that this approach intersects with attempts to control cultural centers in African countries, using them as tools to export the Iranian revolution. Al-Waeel concluded by noting the Iranian media's ability to adapt to developments and exploit Western divisions, emphasizing that Iran's investment in the war of narratives has sometimes surpassed the effectiveness of conventional weapons in achieving strategic objectives.
