Spin Watch (11/19/25)

US-Saudi agreement: F-35s for Saudi Arabia

In this piece, the language used to describe the US-Saudi defense agreement is notably euphemistic. The ‘defense package’ and ‘Strategic Defense Agreement’ are framed as reinforcing partnerships and enhancing deterrence, but there is no exploration of how this might escalate tensions or fuel conflict in the Middle East. The term ‘burden-sharing funds’ is another euphemism that glosses over the financial cost the US will bear. There’s a contradiction in the statement that the deal ensures continued Saudi reliance on American military technology while also being presented as a partnership. The article also implies legitimacy for the sale of advanced military technology to Saudi Arabia without providing a structural grounding for why this is necessary or justifiable.
Original Article


Terror attack in Gush Etzion: One murdered, two injured

The article refers to the killing of individuals as ‘murdered by terrorists’, a term which inherently assigns blame and villainy. It does not delve into the underlying political and socio-economic structures that might motivate such acts. The rendering of the victims’ personal histories creates an emotive narrative that may sway readers’ sentiments, yet it does not provide any structural context or analysis for the violence. The term ‘terrorist’ is used freely, but there’s no discussion about the term’s subjective nature – what one person considers a terrorist, another might view as a freedom fighter.
Original Article


Released terrorist directs attacks from Turkey

The story uses the term ‘terrorist’ without critically examining the mechanisms that led to his release or the broader societal structures that might have contributed to his actions. The use of the word ‘exiled’ implies forceful ejection and paints the individual as an outsider or villain without considering the complexities of the situation. The article does not delve into why or how the individual is able to facilitate the flow of funds and weapons into Judea and Samaria, leaving readers without a full understanding of the structural factors at play.
Original Article


Maryland elects first openly lesbian mayor

The story frames the election of an openly lesbian mayor in a positive light, portraying it as a sign of progress and inclusivity. However, it does not explore the structural challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals face in politics or society more broadly. The notion of ‘reaching across the aisle’ is presented as a virtue, but does not take into account the power dynamics and structural barriers that might make such cooperation difficult. The focus on her campaign pledges avoids any discussion of the structural issues that may impact their implementation.
Original Article


CJV elects Rabbi Ze’ev Smason as Vice President

The article uses positive language to depict the election of Rabbi Ze’ev Smason as the Vice President of the Coalition for Jewish Values, and emphasizes his commitment to traditional Jewish values. However, it does not question or examine the structures of power within the organization, or consider how these may impact the representation of diverse Jewish voices. The description of Rabbi Smason’s career and his respect for his predecessor implies a sense of legitimacy and continuity, but does not consider potential issues of hierarchy, privilege, or exclusion within the organization.
Original Article


Racist extremist planned to poison Hasidic children

The story uses strong, emotive language to depict the actions of a racist extremist, labeling him a ‘defendant’ and detailing his disturbing plans. However, it does not delve into the structural and societal factors that might have contributed to his radicalization. The article also mentions real-world attacks inspired by the defendant’s propaganda, but does not explore the mechanisms through which such hate speech can incite violence. Notably, the story frames the actions of law enforcement as heroic, and uses the term ‘investigative work’ to legitimize their actions, without questioning the structures and systems that allowed such extremist views to flourish in the first place.
Original Article