Media Representations of the Israeli Military in the U. S. Elite Press: Discourse of Ethics and Power

Authors

  • Author

  • Basim Tweissi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31430/ZPIY1162

Keywords:

Media Representation, Israeli Army, American Elite Press, Critical Media Discourse

Abstract

This study examined representations of the Israeli military establishment in the U. S. elite press, focusing on aspects of power and morality. it poses a key question: How did the Israeli military establishment appear to be represented in the American elite press after October 7 , 2023. The study employs critical discourse analysis (CDA) techniques alongside a review of relevant literature and secondary sources to uncover the characteristics of the representations constructed by media narratives. This is achieved through reflective thematic analysis of in-depth reports from a sample of American elite press outlets, represented by three major publications: The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and Foreign Policy. The findings reveal that much of the journalistic discourse has focused on the moral dilemma surrounding the Israeli military's actions. The moral reputation of the Israeli military establishments, once central to its image, has suffered significant erosion. Additionally, the analysis highlights notable shifts in the perception of power, self-defense, technological and qualitative superiority, and the image of victory.

Author Biography

  • Basim Tweissi
    Professor in Journalism and media studies and Head of the Journalism Program, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies.

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Published

2026-03-01

Article dates

Received: October 9, 2025 Revised: January 10, 2026 Accepted: February 1, 2026

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Issue

Vol. 14 No. 079 (2026): Issue 079

Section

Studies

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