A new study titled Media Coverage of Gaza: The Case of Cyprus sheds light on how the Cypriot media has reported on the ongoing Gaza conflict. Published by Universitas Publications and the Institute for Mass Media, the findings will be presented at an international conference at the University of Cyprus on January 30-31.
The conference, aptly named ‘Reimagining and Rebuilding Palestine: Genocide, Trauma, and the Future of a Suffering Nation’, has sparked discussions about potential biases in media reporting. Critics, particularly those supportive of Israel, may argue that the study reflects a one-sided perspective.
However, the study raises important issues regarding media integrity, stating, “we appear to have reached a moment of widespread media capture and increasing media capitulation to corporate and political interests.” It highlights how the Gaza conflict has exemplified this troubling trend, where some media outlets have refrained from challenging the established narratives surrounding Israel.
Throughout the conflict that erupted in October 2023, the Cypriot media’s coverage has involved a careful balancing act. The study notes a tendency towards ‘both-sides-ism’, which often leads to presenting conflicting narratives without critically analysing the claims made by either side. This method of reporting can risk normalising misinformation, as the authors indicate.
One troubling example cited is the coverage of Al-Jazeera journalist Anas Al-Sharif, who was killed along with his camera crew in August 2025. The headline from Kathimerini suggested his involvement with Hamas, despite evidence being lacking and his role as a journalist being well-documented. Such framing raises questions about the media’s responsibility in ensuring accurate representation of events.
The Cyprus Mail also faces scrutiny in its reporting. While acknowledging that much of the world news is sourced from wire services like Reuters, it remains vital to address the shortcomings in local media coverage, especially considering the restrictions placed on foreign journalists trying to report from Gaza.
Despite these challenges, the Cyprus Mail has reported on local protests against Al-Sharif’s assassination, as well as covering the impact of the Gaza crisis on Cypriot society, including the Amalthea aid corridor and the influx of Israelis seeking refuge in Cyprus.
The report underscores a broader moral dilemma faced by the media in covering foreign conflicts. It notes a general reluctance to challenge the government’s support of Israel, particularly in the context of Cyprus’ geopolitical stance against Turkey. Columnists like Alper Ali Riza KC have voiced concerns regarding the moral implications of the prevailing narratives, suggesting that Israel’s actions have led to a loss of the moral high ground.
While opinion pieces contribute to the discourse, they cannot replace rigorous news reporting. The study observes that it was only after mass starvation became an issue in early 2025 that local newspapers began to adopt a more assertive stance, with the Cyprus Mail allocating full responsibility to Israel for the humanitarian crisis.
The multifaceted nature of the Gaza conflict reflects a significant moment in global media, where narratives are often shaped by political and corporate interests. The study highlights how the IDF’s control over information flow, including bans on journalists entering conflict zones, has led to a landscape where traditional journalistic standards are challenged.
As the media landscape evolves, questions arise about the responsibilities of journalists and the impact of corporate ownership on news reporting. The study raises critical reflections on the state of journalism today and the implications for public understanding of complex global issues like the Gaza conflict.
