“Who Do We Listen To?” — Discerning Credible Sources in the Israel-Gaza Conflict

As someone academically trained in media studies, I have developed a keen eye for spotting biases in media reporting. This sensitivity often turns watching mainstream news into a somewhat cringe-worthy experience, as I notice the subtle slants and omissions in their coverage. To form a more comprehensive view of world events, I find myself mostly delving into independent research for my day-to-day news. However, since the outbreak of the war in Israel-Gaza on October 7th, my family and I have been glued to the television, relying heavily on reporters on the ground for immediate and accurate updates.

Frequently, I catch myself exclaiming in frustration at the screen, “But you’re leaving out [specific part] of the story!” This reaction prompts me to switch channels in search of a more complete narrative, which is often hard to find. Our living room has become a dynamic forum, sparking in-depth discussions about the credibility, inherent biases, and target audiences of these media outlets. (Not that I’m complaining about having time to share my special interests with my loved ones.)

This experience has reinforced to me that media literacy is vital, not just during times of conflict but in our everyday lives. It’s crucial to recognize that ‘News Station’ does not equate to an unfiltered…