Memory, trauma and accusations against Israel: The anniversary of October 7 in world newspapers

A global press survey marking the third anniversary of the October 7 massacre reveals deep framing gaps: alongside survivor testimonies and coverage of Israeli trauma, Arab media and Al Jazeera portrayed Israel as the one who started the war and adopted claims of 'genocide'. The coverage also ties into the election campaign in Israel.

A global press survey marking the third anniversary of the October 7 massacre reveals deep gaps in media framing. Alongside pro-Israeli outlets like Germany's 'Bild', which dedicated its lead story to 'the Hamas massacre' and recreated the day's events, and outlets like Britain's 'The Guardian' and France's 'Le Monde' that focused on hostage survivor testimonies and Israeli trauma, Arab media and Al Jazeera stood out by portraying Israel as the one who started the war and adopting claims of 'genocide'. The coverage also ties into the election campaign in Israel, with CNN and Brazil's 'O Globo' linking the anniversary to the upcoming elections. European leaders, including the German Chancellor and the French President, issued messages of support for Israel on the day.