Spin Watch (7/19/25)

Harvard sued for refusing to punish students who attacked Jew

In this story, the use of terms like “safety marshals” and “pro-Palestinian Arab demonstration” creates a deceptive framing that obscures the violence inflicted upon the plaintiff, Yoav Segev. Through the use of these euphemisms, the protest is presented as a legitimate expression of political views, while the violence perpetrated against Segev is minimized. The narrative also reveals a contradiction in Harvard’s handling of the incident, with the university’s refusal to take disciplinary action against the students and alleged obstruction of a criminal investigation contradicting its stated commitment to creating a safe learning environment. The story further implies Harvard’s legitimacy without questioning the university’s decision to reward the students involved, thereby obscuring the university’s role in perpetuating a culture of violence.

Original Article


Yael Arbel: ‘I feel like I’m still restrained, like in captivity’

The language used in this story subtly frames the experience of Yael Arbel’s abduction and subsequent captivity in misleading terms. Phrases like “moments of her return” and “her emotions remain captive” are euphemistic and downplay the trauma Arbel has experienced. There is also a contradiction between the narrative’s portrayal of Arbel’s physical return and her stated feelings of continued captivity. This story also raises questions about the power dynamics at play, with Arbel’s assertion that “The military pressure endangers the hostages, kills them, harms them physically and mentally” suggesting that those in power are acting in ways that contradict their stated goals of ensuring safety.

Original Article


Hezbollah deputy leader: ‘Israel will not take our weapons’

In this story, the statement by Qassem that “Our weapons are an obstacle because they allowed Lebanon to stand on its feet and prevented Israel from expanding” uses euphemistic language to legitimize Hezbollah’s violent actions. The story also presents a structural breakdown where coercion and violence are portrayed as a form of governance. Furthermore, the narrative reveals a contradiction between Hezbollah’s stated commitment to a ceasefire agreement and its ongoing conflict with Israel.

Original Article


US envoy announces ceasefire agreement between Israel, Syria

This story contains no content for analysis.

Original Article


Bloodbath in Sweida: 638 killed in five days of Druze-Alawite clashes

This story uses the term “clashes” to describe violent confrontations between Druze and Alawite groups, thereby minimizing the severity of the violence and the loss of life. The framing of the narrative also implies legitimacy to the actions of the Syrian army, despite their withdrawal from Sweida contributing to the escalation of violence. The story also reveals a contradiction in the Syrian President’s accusations against Israel for undermining internal stability, while his own actions have contributed to instability and violence.

Original Article


Israel makes ‘significant progress’ in hostage deal with Hamas

This story uses euphemistic language, describing negotiations with the Hamas terrorist organization as making “significant progress”. This framing obscures the coercive and violent nature of the actions of Hamas. The story also reveals a contradiction in the narrative, with the Israeli delegation’s presence in Qatar suggesting a willingness to negotiate, despite the ongoing conflict. The narrative also implies legitimacy to the actions of both Israeli and Hamas forces without questioning the structural violence inherent in the situation.

Original Article