Socio-Political Ideologies of Gaza’s Chief Ismael Haniyeh: A Political Discourse Analysis

Abstract

The present study explores the socio-political ideologies reflected in the speech of Chief Ismael Haniyeh within the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict. The primary objective is to highlight the socio-political ideologies he embodies. The findings reveal that he employs various linguistic forms—such as nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, and adjectives—and rhetorical devices, including number games and hyperbole to construct discursive strategies like actor description, appeals to authority, the burden of responsibility, national self-glorification, victimization, and lexicalization. These strategies are used to promote their respective ideologies, portraying the in-group positively and the out-group negatively. Comparative analysis shows that Chief Ismael Haniyeh more frequently employs discursive devices such as actor description, authority, burden, number games, national self-glorification, lexicalization, and exaggeration. In contrast, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu more prominently uses actor description, number games, burden, and appeals to authority. While both leaders depict their in-group in a positive light, Chief Ismael Haniyeh consistently portrays the out-group negatively, whereas Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu focuses more on positive representation of the in-group. Overall, the analysis reveals that the two leaders hold opposing ideological positions on key issues such as peace, terrorism, war negotiations, agreements, and their respective global and diplomatic stances.