Hamas, in English, and even more in its Arabic broadcasts and social media posts, doesn’t even bother to hide its ultimate goal — the destruction of Israel.
While its spokesmen occasionally temper their language when speaking in English, the message to their own people remains consistent and chilling.
For decades, Hamas has maintained this dual narrative. To Western ears, it speaks of “resistance” and “occupation.” But to Arabic-speaking audiences, it speaks of extermination — of erasing the Jewish state and its people. The contradiction is not accidental; it’s the foundation of Hamas propaganda.
This strategy has been remarkably successful. Many around the world, including Western politicians and media outlets, have been convinced that Hamas is somehow defending itself against Israeli aggression, rather than openly calling for genocide. The organization’s manipulation of language and imagery — always painting Gazans as victims and Israel as the aggressor — has reversed reality in the eyes of millions.