Spin Watch (12/7/25)

Blair promoting initiative under which PA would take over parts of Gaza

The use of the term “initiative” in this context presents the proposed action as a positive strategic move, potentially deflecting from the inherent coercion of the situation. The article suggests that the Palestinian Authority (PA) will voluntarily “assume control,” but the passive framing hides the fact that it is an imposed solution, not necessarily one chosen by the PA. The language implies legitimacy without addressing the structural issues underlying the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The article also uses the term “internal reforms” to refer to changes that need to happen within the PA for the initiative to be successful. This euphemistic language subtly shifts the responsibility for any potential failure of the initiative onto the PA, without acknowledging the restrictive conditions under which the PA operates, or the role of external actors in influencing these conditions.
Original Article


Family of Ran Gvili calls for his return

The article presents the family’s pleas as a simple call for the return of a loved one, which naturally evokes empathy. However, it fails to acknowledge the broader structural violence that has led to Ran Gvili’s captivity. The language of the story, focusing on the emotional aspect, can be seen as a way to distract from the political and military context in which these events are taking place.

The story also implies that the return of Ran Gvili is a matter of national unity and shared responsibility, expressed through phrases like “we are one people” and “we won’t move to the second phase without Ran coming back.” This framing obscures the fact that the situation of captivity is a direct result of state actions, rather than a shared national responsibility.
Original Article


Rabbi Maya calls for increased Torah study following harsh decree from Above

The rhetoric used in this headline implies a divine legitimacy to the “harsh decree,” framing it as a religious imperative. This can be seen as a way to suppress questioning or resistance, by invoking divine authority. The call to “strengthen ourselves in Torah study” further reinforces this religious framing, suggesting that compliance with religious norms is the appropriate response.

However, the article provides no context for what the “harsh decree” is, or why it may have been issued. This lack of information restricts the reader’s ability to critically engage with the story, and may serve to further reinforce the implied legitimacy of the decree.
Original Article


Paratroopers eliminate two terrorists attempting to ram Israelis at police checkpoint

The use of the term “eliminate” in this headline is a euphemism for the violent act of killing. By using this term, the article frames the act not as a violent event, but as a necessary response to a threat. This language normalizes violence by presenting it as part of regular security operations.

The individuals killed are labeled “terrorists,” a term that automatically categorizes them as threats and legitimizes their killing. However, the article does not provide any information to justify this label. The label “terrorist” is used to justify violent actions against them, obscuring the fact that they are individuals who may have been acting under various pressures or motivations.
Original Article


Amudim’s Unite to Heal event returns for its fifth year

The article uses the term “Unite to Heal” to frame the event as a positive and collective effort towards recovery. This language creates a sense of legitimacy and goodwill around the event, potentially distracting from any structural issues within the organization or its methods.

The use of terms like “recovery” and “healing” suggest a focus on individual well-being. However, they can also serve to individualize issues that are systemic in nature, like addiction and abuse. By focusing on individual recovery, the article may deflect from the need for broader social and structural changes to prevent and address these issues.
Original Article


German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visits Israel, meets with President Isaac Herzog

The article presents the meeting between the German Chancellor and the Israeli President as a friendly and cooperative event. The language used, such as “welcome,” “friend,” and “support,” implies a sense of legitimacy and shared values between the two nations. However, this framing does not acknowledge the power dynamics and historical context that underlie their relationship.

The dialogue between the two leaders emphasizes the idea of “peace” and “security.” However, these terms are used without reference to the structural and systemic issues that contribute to ongoing conflict in the region. The use of these terms can serve to obscure these issues and present a simplified narrative of cooperation and mutual support.
Original Article