Mar 13 • 07:01 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

'War of memes': USA and Iran turn pop references into war propaganda

The USA and Iran are utilizing popular culture references as war propaganda, with each country creating provocative content aimed at influencing public opinion amidst ongoing military actions.

The article discusses how both the USA and Iran are employing pop culture references in their war propaganda amidst ongoing military conflicts. The Iranian government has used popular media like the movie 'Inside Out' and the Lego franchise to mock figures like Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu. Simultaneously, the USA produced provocative videos that depict attacks on Iran as if they were part of a video game, ultimately aiming to resonate emotionally with the public and shape their perceptions.

As the conflict escalates, with bombings resulting in civilian and military casualties and a crisis in the global oil trade, both governments are harnessing artificial intelligence and emotional symbols to sway public opinion. The article highlights how these strategies include visual campaigns designed to provoke strong emotional reactions from audiences. Examples include government videos that incorporate references from popular media, such as SpongeBob SquarePants and the game Counter-Strike, to establish a relatable narrative around the war.

The 'gamification' of war is particularly noted, with the USA's March 4th video montage portraying Iranian bombings through the lens of a video game, illustrating how modern warfare and entertainment are increasingly intertwined. The use of memes and pop culture in warfare raises questions about the ethics of propaganda and its impact on public sentiment and international relations, as both countries navigate the complex landscape of modern conflict.

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