A Critical Discourse Analysis of the CNN and Al- Jazeera English Coverage of the Seventh October Event of Gaza

Abstract

Language should perform what happens in society so that each text treats a social issue and the interlocutors do not share the same worldview. As a result, the interpretation of the text would be provided differently. The study conducted a critical discourse analysis of news coverage by Al Jazeera English (AJE) and Cable News Network (CNN) regarding the israeli- Palestinian conflict, focusing on the 7th October attack of Gaza. This event was examined to uncover similarities and differences in how both news outlets in which the event was reported, it highlights the factors influencing the coverage of this event. The research employed qualitative content analysis, utilizing Norman Fairclough's three-dimensional framework, which includes textual analysis (Description), discursive practices (Interpretation), and contextual analysis (Social Context). Through this academic approach, the study aimed to explore the differences of news reporting by CNN and AJE, providing insights into their coverage styles. The analysis revealed both common points and distinctions in how the two news departments approached the Seventh October event, highlighting the impact of various factors on their reporting. By delving into the critical discourse of these media outlets, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the ideological and linguistic choices made in news coverage of the israeli-Palestinian conflict.