Israeli Lawmaker Faces Legal Threat Over AI Propaganda Video

An organization named "Emet LeYaakov BeYisrael" has demanded the immediate removal of a controversial AI-generated propaganda video disseminated by the "Yisrael Tichla" party, which features MK Sharan Haskel. The organization, represented by attorney Natan Meshaat, has filed an urgent appeal with the Chairman of the Central Elections Committee, Supreme Court Justice Noam Sohlberg, and sent a legal warning to Haskel and her party. The video depicts a wounded IDF soldier in a dark room, with a figure in Haredi attire taking money from his pocket and saying, "Thank you, righteous one." The video concludes with the slogan "Haredim for the Future of the Nation" and the party's branding.

"Emet LeYaakov BeYisrael" argues that the video's portrayal of a soldier in a state simulating captivity and abuse for political propaganda is deeply offensive to IDF soldiers and the public. They contend it crosses a moral and public red line, especially given the sensitive memories such imagery evokes. The organization also claims the video falsely smears the Haredi community and Torah scholars, attributing theft, violence, and exploitation of the vulnerable to them, while ignoring their contributions to military service and charitable organizations.

The organization warned that such messages could incite animosity and violence. They have requested the Elections Committee to halt the video's distribution and remove it from all platforms, along with an official condemnation of its content. A 24-hour deadline was given to Haskel and her party to remove the video and cease its paid promotion. The organization also demands a public, unconditional apology to the Haredi public, Torah scholars, IDF soldiers, and their families, as well as public and personal accountability for approving the publication.

Copies of the appeal were sent to the President, the State Comptroller, the Knesset Ethics Committee, and the governmental unit coordinating the fight against racism. MK Yaakov Asher condemned the video as "anti-Semitic incitement," stating that if a Haredi person is harmed due to this incitement, the responsibility lies with Sharan Haskel. MK Meir Porush criticized the video as "anti-Semitic election propaganda." Haskel responded to Asher, accusing him of hypocrisy regarding military service and stating that her community fights for the country while his seeks exemptions.