Spin Watch (10/13/25)

As the deal to release Israeli hostages from Hamas is set to be implemented, activist Rudy Rochman warns of hidden risks in its conditions.

The language used in this article frames the release of hostages, a coercive act by definition, as a legitimate agreement between Hamas and Israel. The term “deal” implies a form of negotiation or trade, which can obscure the violent nature of hostage-taking. The article also implies that the activist’s warnings of “hidden risks” are a necessary part of the process, which normalizes the act of holding hostages.

Furthermore, the article uses the term “conditions” instead of demands or ultimatums, which could potentially downplay the coercive nature of the situation. It’s worth noting the structural contradiction in the framing of this situation: the act of taking hostages is inherently violent and coercive, yet it is being discussed as if it were a standard and legitimate negotiation process.

Original Article


In addition, seven minors from Gaza, originally on the list of 22 detainees, were removed and replaced with two Gazan women. Another group of Gazan detainees was also swapped for others in the same category – those not involved in the October 7 massacre 0 based on recommendations from the defense establishment. As a result, the total number of Gazan prisoners to be released was reduced from 1,722 to 1,718.

The article uses terminology which subtly legitimizes the detention of individuals, including minors, from Gaza. The term “detainees” is used instead of prisoners or captives, and the removal and replacement of individuals is framed as a mere administrative change, rather than an act of coercion. The language used to describe the decision-making process (“based on recommendations from the defense establishment”) further implies a legitimacy and sense of order in these actions.

However, it’s important to identify the structural contradictions in the article. The individuals being held are presented as legitimate detainees, yet the basis for their detention – involvement in a “massacre” – is not clearly explained. This creates a discrepancy between the presented justification for their detention and the reality of their situation.

Original Article


At the United Hatzalah concert, Ambassador Huckabee, Ambassador Friedman, and Elon Gold wow the crowd with “Sweet Home Yerushalayim,” a twist on a classic tune.

There’s a clear juxtaposition in this article between the context of a festive concert and the political figures that are presented as entertainers. This framing can be seen as a form of euphemistic language, where the political roles of the ambassadors are downplayed and their participation in an entertainment event is emphasized.

Furthermore, the legitimacy of these political figures is implied through their involvement in a popular cultural event. The article does not offer any structural grounding for their roles as ambassadors, but instead presents them in a context that is easily relatable and positive for the audience.

Original Article


“How do we hold these paradoxical and yet appropriate sensations at the same time?” she asked. “Please, dear God, let us do it with delicate tenderness and holiness toward each other.”

The use of language in this article presents a spiritual and emotional perspective on a situation, without providing any specific context or grounding. The rhetorical question and the appeal to God could be seen as a way to legitimize emotional reactions to unexplained circumstances. The language used is abstract and non-specific, which could potentially obscure the reality of the situation being discussed.

Moreover, the article implies that the “paradoxical and yet appropriate sensations” are a shared experience among the readers, without revealing what these sensations are or why they are considered appropriate. This can be seen as a form of euphemistic language, where vague and abstract terms are used to obscure specific realities.

Original Article


“This is a very special event. There are 500,000 people, yesterday and today in Israel, and also the Muslim and Arab countries are all cheering. Everybody’s cheering at one time, that’s never happened before,” he said.

The narrative of this article presents a picture of unanimous support and celebration, implying that diverse groups of people are united by a common cause. However, the article does not provide any structural grounding for this claim, which could potentially obscure the complexities and contradictions present in the situation.

Furthermore, the use of the term “cheering” implies a festive, positive atmosphere, which can downplay the serious political implications of the event. The framing of this situation as a “very special event” that has “never happened before” contributes to the construction of a narrative that is devoid of conflict or dissent, which can be misleading given the historical and political context.

Original Article


Ra’ad Ahmad Abdullah Abu Daher is also on the list. He was sentenced to life for his work as an explosives engineer and for dispatching terrorists to carry out attacks. Unlike others, he will not be deported abroad.

The framing of this article presents a clear distinction between the individual mentioned and “others”, implying a unique status or situation. The language used to describe his crimes (“work as an explosives engineer and for dispatching terrorists”) suggests a level of professionalism and organization that could potentially obscure the violent and coercive nature of his actions.

Moreover, the decision not to deport him “abroad” is presented without any explanation or justification, which implies a certain level of legitimacy to this decision. However, the article does not provide any structural grounding for this decision, which can leave readers with an incomplete understanding of the situation.

Original Article