Methods and Tactics of Persian-Language Satellite Networks in Spreading Unrest
(Case Study: Iran International Network's Vision Program in the 1401 Unrest)
1
Farabi University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
2
National Supreme Defense University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the methods and strategies employed by the Iran International satellite TV network during the expansion phase of the 2022 unrests in Iran. Triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini, these events evolved into a major national security challenge, largely fueled by structured and widespread media coverage. Adopting a qualitative approach and content analysis method, the research investigates 88 episodes of the network's “Cheshmandaz” program aired between September and December 2022.
Findings reveal that Iran International used deliberate psychological warfare techniques such as demonization, labeling, black propaganda, encouragement, repetition, provocation, and instilling hopelessness—to influence the “gray zone” population, delegitimize the Islamic Republic, and amplify perceived institutional failures. Results from MaxQDA coding confirm that these techniques were applied systematically to undermine national cohesion and intensify unrest.
The study proposes strategies in the fields of media management, counter-psychological operations, and media literacy promotion as part of a broader cognitive passive defense framework.
Ardalani, H., & M.Haddadi, M. (2025). Methods and Tactics of Persian-Language Satellite Networks in Spreading Unrest
(Case Study: Iran International Network's Vision Program in the 1401 Unrest). Security Horizons, (), -.
MLA
Hamed Ardalani; Mohammad M.Haddadi. "Methods and Tactics of Persian-Language Satellite Networks in Spreading Unrest
(Case Study: Iran International Network's Vision Program in the 1401 Unrest)", Security Horizons, , , 2025, -.
HARVARD
Ardalani, H., M.Haddadi, M. (2025). 'Methods and Tactics of Persian-Language Satellite Networks in Spreading Unrest
(Case Study: Iran International Network's Vision Program in the 1401 Unrest)', Security Horizons, (), pp. -.
VANCOUVER
Ardalani, H., M.Haddadi, M. Methods and Tactics of Persian-Language Satellite Networks in Spreading Unrest
(Case Study: Iran International Network's Vision Program in the 1401 Unrest). Security Horizons, 2025; (): -.
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