Spin Watch (11/22/25)

Syrian VP: Israel should withdraw to pre-Dec. 8 borders

The article presents the ongoing negotiations between Syria and Israel as a matter of national security for both nations, without critically examining the power dynamics at play. The Syrian Vice President’s assertion that “Syria should have the freedom of dealing with their own territory,” is met with the Israeli government’s demand for a “comprehensive peace agreement,” which appears to be a guise for maintaining control over certain positions. Additionally, the story’s framing of the negotiations as a deadlock obscures the power imbalance between the two nations, as it implies an equal standing that is not reflective of the on-ground realities.

The article’s language also subtly legitimizes the Israeli government’s stance by referring to the territories captured by the IDF as “positions” rather than occupied territories. This framing effectively normalizes the military occupation and its associated violence under the banner of security arrangements. The use of the term “security agreement” instead of peace treaty or resolution is another such example, as it implies a focus on militaristic control rather than diplomatic resolution.

Original Article


US Jewish groups condemn ‘blood libel’ display at Union Station

The article frames the “Friendsgiving” display as a form of antisemitism, a label that could be used to delegitimize criticism of the Israeli government and its policies. The organizations quoted in the article label the display as “blood libel,” a historically loaded term that equates criticism of the Israeli state with violent, unfounded accusations against Jews as a whole. This framing effectively silences critique of state violence and human rights abuses by conflating it with hate speech.

Additionally, the article uses the emotionally charged language of “antisemitic tropes” and “revival of one of the oldest and most dangerous antisemitic tropes in history” to create a sense of urgency and threat around the issue. This language serves to bolster the narrative of danger and persecution, potentially justifying further restrictions on freedom of speech under the guise of protecting Jewish communities.

Original Article


Hamas’s growing power could trigger another Gaza operation

This headline implies a causal relationship between Hamas’s growing power and a potential military operation in Gaza, framing the latter as a necessary and legitimate response to the former. It does not question the legitimacy of such a military operation or its potential impacts on civilians in Gaza. Nor does it consider alternative, non-military responses to the perceived threat of Hamas’s power.

Furthermore, by framing the potential military action as a response to Hamas’s “growing power,” the article assumes and reinforces the narrative that Hamas’s power is inherently threatening. It does not delve into the reasons for this growth in power or consider the perspectives of those who might support Hamas.

Original Article


Israel closely monitoring Iran’s arms race

This article frames Iran’s arms development as a threat, legitimizing Israel’s surveillance and potential military response. The term “arms race” suggests a competitive dynamic, placing Iran and Israel on equal footing and obscuring the power dynamics at play. It does not question the legitimacy of Israel’s surveillance or its potential impacts on Iranian sovereignty.

The article also uses the term “nuclear program” instead of “nuclear weapons program,” implying a militaristic intent that may not exist. It also presents Iran’s refusal to give up its nuclear and missile programs as a defiant act, rather than a sovereign nation’s right to self-defense. By doing so, it implicitly justifies potential military action against Iran.

Original Article


Security forces eliminate terrorist during operation in Shechem

The language used in this article frames the actions of the Israeli security forces as a legitimate response to a threat. The term “terrorist,” as used here, dehumanizes the individuals involved and presents them as threats rather than human beings. This framing can justify the use of deadly force and obscure potential abuses of power or violations of human rights.

Furthermore, the term “operation” implies a planned, orderly action, which may not accurately reflect the chaotic and violent nature of these encounters. By framing these actions as part of an “operation,” the article legitimizes them as necessary for security, rather than questioning their impacts on the individuals involved or the broader community.

Original Article


Rafah area after 15 terrorists tried escaping tunnels

The headline presents the individuals attempting to escape the tunnels as “terrorists,” a term that dehumanizes them and justifies their capture or killing. This framing obscures the potential reasons for their actions, such as survival or resistance to occupation. It also does not question the legitimacy of the force used against them or its potential impacts on their human rights.

The term “escaping” also implies wrongdoing or guilt, further legitimizing the use of force against these individuals. This framing does not consider the possibility that these individuals may be fleeing from violence or persecution, nor does it question the conditions that led to their being in the tunnels in the first place.

Original Article