Linguistics and Elt Journal
Vol 13, No 1 (2025): June

Constructing Political Narratives and Seeking International Legitimacy: An Appraisal Analysis of Benjamin Netanyahu’s UN Speech

pramudita, cecillia jhovanca (Unknown)
Tianto, Khristianto (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
16 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study explores how Benjamin Netanyahu employs evaluative language in his political speeches at international forums, particularly in relation to the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. Using critical discourse analysis and Martin and White’s (2005) Judgment theory, the study distinguishes between evaluations based on social esteem and social sanction. The data, drawn from transcripts of Netanyahu’s speeches at the United Nations, are analyzed to identify linguistic strategies that construct narratives of existential threat and legitimize Israel’s defensive actions. The findings reveal that Netanyahu consistently uses negative social evaluations to portray his opponents as brutal and immoral, while positioning Israel as a threatened nation acting in justified self-defense. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of how political language shapes public opinion and international perceptions in the context of conflict.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JELTL

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Linguistics and ELT Journal (p-ISSN 2339-2940 | e-ISSN 2614-8633) is published twice a year in the months of June and December. The purpose of LELTJ is to disseminate information and facilitate understanding among those people who are concerned with English language teaching and linguistics, ...