Background: On 28 February 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated air and missile strikes against Iran, targeting military installations, nuclear facilities, and strategic command centres in Tehran and other cities.
Objective: The objective of the study was to examine how social media were used to frame propaganda narratives during the US-Israel-Iran conflict from February 28 – March 31, 2026.
Method: The study adopted a mixed-method approach, combining content analysis and survey research designs. A total of 257 social media posts related to the conflict were analysed, while 400 (sample size) respondents participated in the survey.
Result: Findings reveal that X and Facebook significantly shaped propaganda narratives during the US-Israel-Iran conflict through emotionally-driven framing, misinformation, and repeated digital implication.
Conclusion: The study concludes that social media plays a crucial role in constructing and sustaining propaganda narratives in contemporary conflicts.
Unique Contribution: The study contributes to existing literature by showing how AI-generated visuals, manipulated content, and coordinated digital narratives intensified propaganda circulation and audience engagement during the US-Israel-Iran conflict.
Recommendations: The study, therefore, recommends improved media literacy, strengthened fact-checking mechanisms, responsible platform regulation, and balanced framing practices to enhance informed public understanding of conflict.
Publication Date: 2026-06-15