IRAN: the Media at War

An online event via Zoom held at 6pm on Tuesday 17th March 2026.

Event Description

As with all conflicts, the role of the media has become a major talking point during the Iran War.

Propaganda from both the US and Iran, action-movie videos from the White House, strict censorship in much of the Middle East, problems with getting independent reporters into Iran, an internet blackout in Iran, and an outpouring of AI-generated fake videos. All are contributing to this conflict being a battle for truth.

Our online Media Society discussion brought together leading journalists to discuss how the media has covered the conflict so far, and how that may change as the war develops and possible escalates.

Event Panel

• Gavin Esler - journalist, television presenter and author (Event Chair)

• Leila Molana - Allen, special correspondent for the PBS Newshour in the USA

• Fergal Keane - veteran war correspondent for the BBC

• Farnaz Ghazizadeh - Iranian journalist, and BBC Persian television presenter.