Tarek Cherkaoui reveals how geo-political and ideological legacies of the past, which divide the world into a dichotomy of 'us' against 'them', play a dominant role in reinforcing the ensuing polarisation of our media.

War, propaganda, and the mobilisation of frames --Orientalism, terrorism, and American media discourse -- CNNI framings of Middle East Conflict, 1991-2001 -- The origins of modern Arab nationalism -- The prospect of war in Iraq : frames, propaganda, and debate -- Hostilities begin : 'Decapitation Strike', 'Shock and Awe', and contesting realities -- Journalists as combatants : US bombing of Al Jazeera's office and the Palestine Hotel -- Liberation vs. occupation : the toppling of Saddam's statue.