Work

Competing narratives. The ideological and media instrumentalization of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article critically analyzes the instrumentalization of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict by political actors and transnational social movements. Drawing on framing theory and Bourdieu's concept of symbolic capital, it argues that legitimate solidarity with the Palestinian cause is frequently co-opted to serve as a signifier within broader ideological narratives (anti-Western, anti-capitalist). Through a qualitative analysis of cases such as the Sumud Global Flotilla and the rhetoric of public figures, it demonstrates that this appropriation generates selective solidarity, simplifies the conflict's historical and ethical complexity, and ultimately obscures the path toward sustainable peace. The paper concludes by underscoring the need for an ethics of solidarity based on factual accuracy and a universal recognition of the humanity of all parties, rejecting Manichean simplification.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17288370

Author: Vassallo, Miguel

Institution: Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas "Francisco García Salinas"

Language: English

Topic: Jewish and Middle Eastern Studies

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7085117707

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