On July 25th, the Digital Media Research Centre and the GenAI Lab hosted Dr. Tom Divon from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem for a thought-provoking seminar, exploring the complex interplay between social media, AI, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Divon, who is an Israeli based researcher and humanitarian activist, offered unique insights into the role of “war influencers” and the evolution of conflict representation in digital spaces.
A key focus of the seminar was the “All Eyes on Rafah” case study, which demonstrated how Palestinians are using AI tools to re-narrativize their experiences. This initiative showcases the power of digital media in resistance and imagination, allowing creators to (re)encode symbols of resistance, (re)build their homeland virtually, and (re)imagine alternative war outcomes. However, Divon also highlighted the challenges faced by these creators, including personal risk, skepticism about content authenticity, and algorithmic dehumanization on social media platforms.
The seminar concluded with a discussion on the ethical implications of this digital activism. Divon addressed concerns about the aestheticization, romanticization, and potential dehumanization of war through these digital representations. He also touched on the challenges of conducting this research as an Israeli academic, emphasizing the delicate balance between activism and scholarship in such a contentious context. This seminar provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of digital media in conflict zones and its impact on narrative shaping and public perception.