

Downstream: A Reckoning Is Coming For The Establishment Over Gaza w/ Owen Jones
Aug 18, 2025
Owen Jones, an investigative journalist and author known for works like ‘Chavs’ and ‘The Establishment,’ delves into the biases of Western media coverage on the Gaza conflict. He discusses the historical roots of Zionism and the colonial narratives that shape today’s political landscape. Jones tackles the double standards in violence perceptions between Israelis and Palestinians and critiques the ethical implications facing journalists in Gaza. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing Palestinian voices while navigating complex identity politics and calls for a more equitable media representation.
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Framing That Forecloses Context
- Western coverage often forces critics to first condemn Hamas, shutting down context-based analysis.
- This framing treats colonial violence as illegitimate while presenting state violence as morally pure.
Being Labeled For Giving Context
- Owen Jones recounts being labeled a "Hamas apologist" after describing Palestinian suffering on Sky News.
- He says any contextualising of Israeli actions was framed as excusing 7th October.
Confessed Intent Ignored
- Official Israeli rhetoric signaled intent and dehumanization from the outset, making the course of events predictable.
- Jones argues those statements were often ignored or buried by western media.