Iran's State Media: War Propaganda and Censorship

0:00It's March 16th, here's what's happening around the world. Iranian state media took a cautious approach to announcing the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Kaminay. On February 28th, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at it during a speech, suggesting a joint U.S. Israeli strike. But Iranian TV states silent at first, with presenters calling reports baseless rumors. The next morning, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed it on social media, state broadcasters finally reported the news. This delay fits a pattern in the ongoing war, which has killed over 1,200 people in Iran and spread to Lebanon and Gulf states. State media mixes facts with spin to shape the narrative for viewers at home. Iranians face heavy censorship, internet blackouts, and bands on foreign outlets like BBC Persian, making state TV and radio the main info source. Groups like reporters without borders rank Iran low for press freedom since the 1979 revolution.

1:03Many use VPNs for social media, but access is tough during conflict. State covered spotlights, civilian deaths, pushes for revenge against enemies, and urges loyalty to the regime, while downplaying strikes on military. Sites, they spread disinformation too, like claiming 650 U.S. troops killed early on. Tasnum news even quoted revolutionary guard sources, when the Pentagon confirmed just 13 total. Experts urge healthy skepticism since some reports hold truth, like photos of grays from a school strike that killed over 160 kids and staff. Witnesses note the regime documents real casualties to fuel its war story, blending kernels of fact with propaganda. This episode is proudly sponsored by our partner. Head in, sound on, lights out. That is the routine, S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com.