The Long War of Ideas: American Public Diplomacy in Arabic After 9/11

Book launch and discussion with Professor Nathaniel Greenberg

Wednesday, November 4, 2026 12:00 PM to 1:15 PM EST
Horizon Hall, 3225

Join the Ali Vural Ak Center for Global Islamic Studies (ACGIS) for a book launch and discussion with Professor Nathaniel Greenberg, author of The Long War of Ideas: American Public Diplomacy in Arabic After 9/11.

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, U.S. officials identified the battle for hearts and minds as a "second front" in the war on terror. Significant resources were directed toward public diplomacy initiatives in the Middle East, with the goal of influencing perceptions of the United States through Arabic-language communications, often without openly revealing their American origins.

To what extent did these efforts shape Arab public opinion? Which individuals, institutions, and ideas influenced American public diplomacy during this period? And what lessons can we draw for today's information strategies?

This book launch offers an opportunity to examine these questions and explore the intersection of public diplomacy, media, and international relations.

About the Author

Nathaniel Greenberg is a professor of Arabic at George Mason University. His previous publications include How Information Warfare Shaped the Arab Spring: The Politics of Narrative in Tunisia and Egypt (2019).

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2026
Time: 12:00–1:15 p.m.
Location: Horizon Hall, Room 3225, George Mason University, Fairfax Campus
Format: Hybrid (in-person and online participation)

https://islamicstudiescenter.gmu.edu/events/18017