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

From a sociological perspective, the use of ruins in this manner can influence collective memory. The way events are presented and remembered shapes how they are understood in the future. If the dominant narrative emphasizes resilience and unity, these themes are likely to become central to how the events are recalled. This can have lasting effects on national identity and political culture, influencing how future challenges are perceived and addressed.

The comparison with earlier periods of conflict, particularly the Iran–Iraq War, highlights the continuity of certain narrative strategies. During that period, physical destruction was integrated into a broader story of endurance and sacrifice. Memorials, preserved sites, and public commemorations played a role in sustaining this narrative over time. The current approach builds on these foundations while adapting to the realities of contemporary media environments.

One key difference is the scale and speed of information dissemination. In the past, the spread of images and narratives was more and slower. Today, digital platforms allow for instantaneous global reach. This increases both the potential impact of the strategy and the challenges associated with controlling interpretation. While the state can influence what is produced and initially shared, it cannot fully control how it is received and reinterpreted by diverse audiences.