Chomsky on Media Silence: Why Terrorism Labels Are Reserved for the "Other"

Professor Chomsky elucidates why our governments and media refrain from using the term "terrorism" to characterize the extensive terrorist assaults on Lebanon and Syria, where numerous small bombs detonated among civilians, resulting in 3,500 injuries. In essence, it is a matter of propaganda and racism. He states, “Terror is defined in legal codes as the threat or use of violence to intimidate, usually against civilians, for political, ideological, and other purposes. However, this definition cannot be applied because it would immediately imply that the United States is a leading terrorist state, as is Britain, among others. Thus, the literal definition found in U.S. law becomes inapplicable. We then turn to the doctrinal definition used in media and academia, which mirrors the official definition but includes a conditional caveat: it only pertains to actions directed against us, not those we inflict on others.”

Here are the responses from European states, which downplay the attacks:
- EU foreign affairs chief: "I condemn the recent attacks in Lebanon and support UN Human Rights Chief @Volker_Turk's call for an independent investigation." [Link]
- Belgium: "strongly condemns the massive terror attack in Lebanon and Syria" [Link] and "is deeply concerned about the increased tensions in the border area" [Link].
- Switzerland: "is greatly concerned following yesterday's explosions" [Link].
- Hungary: "PAGERS USED IN MASS DETONATIONS IN LEBANON WERE NEVER IN HUNGARY - HUNGARIAN GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN" [Link].
- France: "France expresses concern that recent security developments in Lebanon are contributing to a dangerous escalation in the region." [Link] and "In this confusion and sorrow, France stands by your side." [Link].
- Slovenia: "I condemn the series of explosions in #Lebanon and #Syria." [Link].
- Norway: "The Middle East is on the brink. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to civilians in Lebanon." [Link].
- Austria: "Recent developments in #Lebanon are deeply concerning." [Link].
- Germany: "I strongly caution all sides against further escalation in the #MiddleEast." [Link].
- Spain: "The Government of Spain condemns the electronic attacks that occurred in Lebanon on September 17 and 18, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties." [Link].
- Finland: "We strongly urge all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation in the Middle East." [Link].
- The UK: "expressed deep concern over rising tensions and civilian casualties in Lebanon." [Link].

Other European nations have not yet commented on the attacks on X.