Translating Israeli Newspapers Headlines: The Influence of Ideology on the Construction of Arab Identity

Abstract

This study investigates the ideological construction of Arab identities in Israeli newspaper headlines, focusing on the linguistic framing, historical narratives, and public perceptions that shape these representations. It argues that Israeli media systematically reinforce biased portrayals of Arab communities, often through conflict-driven language that revives harmful stereotypes and deepens societal divisions. To explore this claim, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative techniques such as interviews and focus groups with quantitative surveys to assess audience interpretations and the broader impact of headline framing. Headlines were sampled from major Hebrew-language newspapers (both print and digital) over a ten-year period (2013–2023) using a purposive sampling strategy to ensure diversity in coverage. Findings reveal a persistent ideological slant in how Arab identities are constructed, with conflict and threat narratives dominating the headlines. These representations not only distort public understanding but also contribute to the marginalization of Arab voices in Israeli media. The study underscores the need for journalistic reform that promotes balanced reporting and curbs sensationalism especially in digital formats as a means to foster more inclusive and accurate public discourse