The Islamic Republic’s Instrumental Misuse of War Ruins: Propaganda

Another dimension worth exploring is the role of spectatorship. In many cases, the individuals present in these spaces are not only participants but also observers. They witness the events unfolding around them, and their reactions become part of the overall scene. This creates a layered dynamic in which people are simultaneously subjects and audiences. Their presence validates the significance of the space, while their observation reinforces the idea that something meaningful is taking place.

This dynamic extends beyond the immediate physical environment. Through photography and video, distant audiences become secondary spectators. They observe not only the ruins but also the people within them, forming impressions based on both elements. This layered spectatorship amplifies the reach of the narrative, allowing it to operate across different of engagement. Those physically present experience it directly, while those viewing from afar engage with it through mediated representations.

The concept of authenticity is central to the effectiveness of this approach. Authenticity in this context does not necessarily mean the absence of planning or coordination. Rather, it refers to the perception that what is being shown is real and unfiltered. The presence of actual damage provides a foundation of credibility that staged environments would lack. Even when activities within these spaces are organized, the surrounding destruction lends them an air of genuineness that is difficult to replicate artificially.