Decoding Hasbara: Unmasking Israel’s propaganda tactics

Israel is being accused of staging a video - purporting to show the surrender of Hamas soldiers in Gaza. The footage on social media shows several dozen men stripped to their underwear and one handing over a gun. But the scene appears to have been staged and shot on several takes. It is not the first time Israeli efforts at propaganda have failed. Propaganda has always been a weapon of war and is commonly used to shore up support at home – and gain sympathy abroad. The videos and images circulating on social media have helped journalists and activists identify some of the detained, disproving Israeli claims that these are Hamas fighters. However, it has also made it easier for the public to spot flaws and inconsistencies. In addition, while many claims are easily disproven – they can distract from the bigger picture – like the growing number of Palestinians being killed in Gaza. Al Jazeera’s Ali Hashem reports. Subscribe to our channel Fo