I read this story a while back; it relates directly to the discussion that we had in class about the attempts of terrorist organizations to indoctrinate youth through media programs. Not only does this Hamas channel have children's programs, they also have "MTV-type" programming, which would most likely target the teen demographic. I think it is interesting that this program is part of a "new strategy" for Hamas, as they try to use a more passive approach with which to penetrate Palestinian political and social systems. The members of Hamas definitely realize the importance that public support plays in their cause, and this program is their attempt to garner positive public opinion.
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I think I talked about this in class, but Hamas had a children's show hosted by Farfur the mouse. When they got pressure from Disney and others, they announced on the show that Farfur had been martyred and replaced him with a bee named Nahoul. Well, Nahoul has just been martyred as well, and replaced with a bunny rabbit who promises to eat the Jews.
Wow...the article posted by Professor Payne was very interesting. I find it revolting that Hamas uses these means to reach the next generation...they are teaching kids to be suicide bombers before they even reach the age at which they can think for themselves and make decisions. The part of the article that I found most interesting in a somewhat disturbing way is the way in which the characters have been killed off: beaten by Israeli soldiers and kept from medical care by Israelis. I think that the second one is the most interesting, because it is making the viewers believe that Israelis are not only beating the Palestinians but they are also denying them of their basic human rights. By instilling these thoughts into the minds of children at such young ages the leaders of Hamas are ensuring that they will have support for generations to come...ensuring that the long lived conflict will continue for years.
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