Israel Launches $50 Million AI-Driven Campaign to Shift American Public Opinion

Israel has initiated a $50 million technological and political campaign aimed at improving its image in the United States and countering declining public support. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the unprecedented effort combines artificial intelligence tools, political connections, and a broad influence campaign. The initiative is led by Brad Parscale, a former senior advisor to President Donald Trump.

The campaign involves sending personalized AI-generated text messages to millions of Americans from senders named "Emma" and "Sarah," common American names, under the group "Friends for Peace." These messages engage recipients in conversations to promote a pro-Israel narrative and gauge public attitudes and concerns about Israel. The strategy includes creating psychological associations linking Israel with positive values such as democracy and peace, while portraying the Palestinian population as extremists and terrorists.

Beyond text messaging, the campaign seeks to influence AI chatbots like ChatGPT by uploading pro-Israel content and links online to shape the narratives these systems provide when users search for information about Israel. Target audiences also include Christian college students and large church congregations.

The campaign has sparked backlash within the American conservative right. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance criticized it as an attempt to manipulate American public opinion to prolong the war and undermine regional peace efforts. Former Trump advisor Steve Bannon dismissed the efforts, stating, "They are trying to sell something that cannot be sold."