Neo-Orientalism, Islamophobia and the Resistance of War on Ghaza in the Speech of Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on 28th Oct 2023: A Critical Discourse Perspective

Abstract

Critical Discourse Analysis aims to analyze the hidden meaning within the language. Political actors utilize linguistic strategies to influence the masses and promulgate the pro ideologies while counter the opposing ideologies. Political discourse analysis aims to uncover the invisible agendas and power dynamics in the language. Van Dijk proposes techniques/ indicators for PDA, allowing the scholars of CDA to reveal the unspoken agendas within the political discourses. Taking advantage of van Dijk theory “Us vs Them” the researchers analyzed the speech of Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, delivered on 28th Oct 2023, in Istanbul. Within the speech the researchers encountered various indicators. Firstly,
Erdogan depicts Palestinian as innocent victims oppressed by Israel who are portrayed as cruel oppressors. To support, his claim, he provides various pieces of evidence: 700 martyrs, including 300 children; 1973 injured, among them 500 healthcare workers, 25 journalists, and 38 United Nations officials. Moreover, 200000 residences are affected, and 30000 buildings are destroyed. The speaker employs the discursive strategy of Victimization to garner sympathy and polarizes Turkey from West,
highlighting Western support for oppressors and Turkish support for oppressed. He generalizes Israelian attacks on the entire Muslim community, holding the West responsible for the massacre in Gaza. The
President references humanity, Islam and United Nation secretary general as an authority and exaggerates the number of Muslims martyrs across the world. Lastly, he taunts the West for being master in killing, accusing them becoming deaf and blind to the situation of Gaza.