Scholars International Journal of Linguistics and Literature (SIJLL)
Volume-9 | Issue-04 | 61-74
Original Research Article
A Multimodal Critical Discourse Analysis of Visual and Linguistic Weaponization in the Iran-Israel Digital Conflict
Qasim Abass Dhayef, Ali Muhammed Ridha Abdulwahid Smesim
Published : April 20, 2026
Abstract
This paper will provide a Multimodal Critical Discourse Analysis (MCDA) of the ways in which both Iran and Israel used Visual and Linguistic Weaponization Strategies to engage each other throughout the Digital Conflict in 2025 and 2024. A Multimodal Critical Discourse Analysis will be conducted in order to understand how both sides of the conflict were able to utilize the combination of Visual Imagery, Textual Narratives, and Symbolic Representations to create Disinformation, Manipulate Public Perception, and to further Strategic Communication Objectives. Utilizing theoretical constructs from Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), Multimodal Discourse Analysis, and Visual Rhetoric; this research will illustrate the various types of Visual and Linguistic manipulation that took place through Official State Media Channels, Social Media Platforms, and Strategic Communication Outlets. The results will indicate that both Iranian and Israeli Actors were able to successfully deploy Sophisticated Multimodal Disinformation Campaigns that included Mislabeled Images, Out-Of-Context Video Footage, Fabricated Claims, and Emotionally Charged Visual Rhetoric. These findings will contribute to the ever-growing body of literature on Information Warfare in the Digital Age and will also demonstrate the Urgent Need for Developing Enhanced Media Literacy Frameworks capable of Addressing the Complex Semiotic Landscape of Contemporary Conflict Zones.