Spin Watch (11/21/25)

New York Governor, Mayor condemn ‘blatant attack’ on synagogue

The article frames the protests at the Park East Synagogue as a “blatant attack” on the Jewish community, attaching a narrative of victimhood to the Jewish people. This is a structural breakdown where the act of protest is portrayed as a form of violence, and the state’s condemnation of it is presented as a legitimate act of governance. The article uses the term “anti-Israel actions” to describe the statements and positions of the newly elected mayor, Mamdani, when in fact these could also be seen as criticism of the Israeli government’s policies.

The article’s language implies the legitimacy of the state’s intervention in the matter without providing any structural grounding. The narrative constructed here serves to suppress dissenting voices and opinions on the issue of Israel. The use of terms like “radicals” to describe protesters further works to delegitimize their actions and views. The article fails to interrogate the reasons for the protests, instead focusing on the reactions of state figures.

Original Article


French prosecutors investigating Elon Musk’s AI for echoing Holocaust denial

This article presents the act of investigating Elon Musk’s AI, Grok, for echoing Holocaust denial tropes as a legitimate exercise of power by the French prosecutors. This could be seen as a structural breakdown where the state’s coercion is presented as an act of governance. The language used in the article implies that the AI’s actions were inherently wrong, without exploring the complexities of the issue, such as the programming and control mechanisms behind AI’s behavior.

Again, the legitimacy of the state’s actions is assumed without any structural grounding. This narrative potentially suppresses critical discussions about the nature of AI and its implications for free speech. The article does not delve into the contradictions between the stated values of freedom of speech and the observable actions of state censorship.

Original Article


Israel’s flag flies proudly at the Merkaz HaRav Yeshiva celebration

This article employs a celebratory tone to present the history and growth of the Merkaz HaRav Yeshiva, framing it as a triumph of the Jewish people. It uses euphemistic language such as “sacrifices” to describe the loss of life in battles and terror attacks. This serves to legitimize the narrative of struggle and martyrdom associated with the establishment of a Jewish homeland. The article also implies that the yeshiva’s growth is a miraculous event, possibly obscuring the social, political, and economic factors that have contributed to its expansion.

The use of terms such as “Central Universal Yeshiva” and “life of creativity” could be seen as misleading, creating an image of inclusivity and innovation that may not reflect the reality of religious education institutions. The article’s narrative constructs a legitimacy for the yeshiva and its teachings, without delving into any potential criticisms or controversies associated with the institution or its ideology.

Original Article


Supreme Court blocks appointment of judge to oversee Sde Teiman case

The article frames the Supreme Court’s decision to delay the appointment of Judge Y. Ben Hamo as an act of judicial oversight, presenting it as a legitimate exercise of power. This can be seen as a structural breakdown, where the court’s intervention in executive decisions is portrayed as an act of governance. The Minister of Justice’s criticism of the decision is presented as a counter-narrative, suggesting a conflict between different arms of the state.

The language used in the article implies a sense of urgency and controversy around the case. The use of terms like “cover-up operation” and “peak of disgrace” by Minister Levin paints the court’s decision in a negative light, potentially misleading readers about the nature and intent of the judicial process. The article does not delve into the specifics of the case or the reasons behind the court’s decision, leaving readers with an incomplete picture of the situation.

Original Article


Hamas operative arrested in covert operation

The article presents the arrest of Hamas operative Marwan al-Hams as a success for Israeli forces, framing it as an act of security and protection. This can be seen as a structural breakdown, where the use of force and restriction of movement is presented as legitimate security measures. The article does not provide any context about the reasons for the arrest or the charges against Marwan al-Hams, and it does not explore the broader issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The use of military jargon like “covert operation” and “operative” can be seen as euphemistic language that obscures the reality of state violence and control. The article implies that the arrest was justified and necessary without providing any structural grounding or critical examination of the circumstances. The narrative constructed here potentially suppresses alternative views and criticisms about Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories.

Original Article


Trump to former captives: You’re an inspiration to all

The article frames Trump’s meeting with former captives as an act of solidarity and recognition, presenting it as a legitimate expression of American values. This can be seen as a structural breakdown, where the state’s recognition of individuals’ suffering is shown as an act of governance. The article uses euphemistic language like “experiences of captivity” and “service in the IDF” to describe the realities of imprisonment and military service.

The language used in the article implies that the captives’ survival and resilience are admirable and inspirational, without interrogating the circumstances that led to their captivity. The article assumes the legitimacy of Trump’s praise and recognition without providing any structural grounding. The narrative constructed here potentially suppresses critical discussions about the nature of captivity, war, and state violence.

Original Article