Zionist Talking PointsLed by Ministers Smotrich and Katz: The Security Cabinet approves the establishment of 19 communities in Judea and Samaria, including Ganim and Kadim, which were evacuated about 20 years ago during the Disengagement in northern Samaria.
The story frames the establishment of 19 communities in Judea and Samaria as a decision led by Ministers Smotrich and Katz, thereby attributing legitimacy to the move. It fails to mention, however, that these areas are internationally recognized as occupied Palestinian territories, and that such settlements are considered illegal under international law. This omission serves to normalize the act of establishing settlements in contested territory, presenting it as a routine decision of governance. Furthermore, the use of the term “Disengagement” is euphemistic, downplaying the fact that it involved the forced removal of thousands of Israeli settlers from Gaza and parts of the West Bank.
The story also fails to mention the potential impact of these settlements on the local Palestinian population, including potential restrictions on their movement and access to resources, and the threat of violence. This omission implies that the establishment of these settlements is a purely administrative matter, without significant human consequences. This is misleading, as such settlements often have serious implications for the lives and rights of Palestinians in the area.
Eden Yerushalmi turns to the camera and says, “Happy New Year to all the families. We are waiting to come home. Happy birthday to my little sister, May – may you be happy and healthy. With God’s help, soon, this year, as they say.”
The article heavily relies on emotional appeals, using direct quotes from the hostages to elicit sympathy and humanize their plight. However, it does not provide any context as to why these individuals are being held hostage or who is responsible for their captivity. This omission serves to decontextualize their situation, framing it as an isolated incident rather than part of a larger political or military conflict.
The language used by the hostages themselves is also noteworthy. They express hope and faith, even in their dire situation, and they frame their captivity as temporary, stating that they are “waiting to come home.” This optimistic language serves to minimize the violence and coercion inherent in their situation, presenting it as a temporary setback rather than a serious violation of their rights.