Spin Watch (12/13/25)

Merz: Israel should not compete in Eurovision in Belarus

The article subtly conveys the legitimacy of a politically-fueled decision to forgo a cultural event, the Eurovision, in Belarus. Through Merz’s statement, the narrative presents this potential boycott as a moral stand rather than a form of cultural censorship or political coercion. The article also uses the euphemistic phrase “under such circumstances” to refer to the ongoing political tensions, instead of directly stating the reasons for this proposed boycott.

Furthermore, the article implies that discussing Israel’s participation in the contest is a scandal, hence justifying the proposed boycott without presenting any specific grounds for this position. This implication carries the risk of suppressing open dialogue and debate on this issue, thereby restricting the free exchange of views.

Original Article


King Charles: ‘I have cancer’

The narrative uses vague language to describe King Charles’ health condition, likely in an attempt to maintain a sense of dignity and control. The use of terms such as “cancer experts” and “cancer community” serves to mask the fact that the King’s health is a personal and private matter. Furthermore, the article doesn’t specify the King’s cancer type, which is a form of information withholding that protects the royal image but does not provide the full truth to the public.

Moreover, the article emphasizes the King’s continued dedication to his duties, creating an image of resilience and stability. This framing portrays the King as an unwavering figure of authority, despite his health challenges. However, it also implies that his ability to govern should not be questioned, which can be seen as an attempt to maintain legitimacy.

Original Article


Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi arrested again in Iran

In this article, the Iranian regime’s arrest of Narges Mohammadi is framed as a legitimate action against “collusion against state security and propaganda against the government.” This framing presents the Iranian government as a legitimate authority protecting its security, whereas Mohammadi’s actions can be interpreted as advocating for human rights and freedom. This contradiction reveals a structural breakdown where the suppression of dissent is portrayed as governance.

The article also uses euphemistic language to describe Mohammadi’s imprisonment. The phrase “medical furlough” masks the reality of her incarceration and the pressure from activists and Western governments for her release. Furthermore, the article’s description of Mohammadi’s health issues and her activism during her furlough subtly highlights the regime’s oppression while maintaining a neutral tone.

Original Article


Israel expects resumption of searches for Gvili’s body

This article subtly legitimizes the use of coercion by the Israeli government in its dealings with Hamas. It suggests that the “immediate resumption of searches” for Gvili’s body is expected as a result of “the end of Storm Byron,” rather than as a result of negotiation or agreement. By framing this expectation as a logical consequence of the storm’s end, the article glosses over the potential use of force or pressure in this situation.

The article also uses the phrase “genuine change” to euphemistically refer to Hamas’s cooperation in the matter, without explicitly stating the nature of the expected change. This vague language obscures the power dynamics at play and the potential use of coercive tactics to achieve these goals.

Original Article


Lebanon warns of major Israeli strike

The article title positions Lebanon as the voice of caution against an impending Israeli strike, which subtly legitimizes Lebanon’s stance and its authority to issue such warnings. By not providing additional context or details about the potential strike, the article leaves readers to infer that such an act of violence from Israel is a given.

In addition to this, by not providing any context or discussion about the reasons behind the alleged planned strike, the article implies a sense of legitimacy to Lebanon’s warning. This lack of background information or analysis may lead readers to accept this narrative without questioning the underlying motives or consequences of such a strike.

Original Article


Ran Gvili’s father: ‘For me, Rani is still alive’

The article invokes an emotional appeal through the words of Ran Gvili’s father, creating a narrative of hope and paternal love. However, it’s important to note that this personal sentiment is being used to influence public opinion and potentially the actions of the government. The father’s declaration that “Rani is still alive” can be seen as an attempt to legitimize continued efforts to find Ran, despite the official announcement of his death.

Moreover, the article subtly uses euphemistic language in referring to Ran Gvili as “missing” or “kidnapped” instead of acknowledging him as a casualty of conflict. This choice of words serves to depersonalize the violence of the conflict and to maintain a narrative of hope and persistence.

Original Article