Gila Gamliel’s Social Media Campaign Mixes Iran Focus, AI Promotion, and Netanyahu Support Ahead of Education Ministry Bid

Gila Gamliel, a longtime Israeli Knesset member and current Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, is campaigning to become Minister of Education, a role she has aspired to for 20 years. Despite this ambition, her social media activity over the past year has largely focused on Iran, security issues, and political loyalty to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rather than education policy.

Analysis by the Shomrim and N12 election teams reveals that Gamliel posted nearly 100 times about Iran since June 2025, often sharing English-language bot-supported messages backing Iranian exile leader Reza Pahlavi and criticizing the Iranian regime. She also frequently retweeted and praised Netanyahu, including virtual AI interviews with historical figures like Menachem Begin and personal birthday tributes. Her social media includes videos portraying a "voluntary migration plan" for Palestinians from Gaza, dubbed the "Gamliel-Trump plan," featuring stylized scenes with Netanyahu, Trump, and settlers.

Regarding education, Gamliel’s references are limited to AI projects in peripheral and settler communities, such as "Sisma Le'kol Yeled" and partnerships with commercial entities. She claims credit for Israel’s rise to seventh place globally in the AI index, though independent data shows Israel previously ranked higher and that private and academic sectors drive this success more than government initiatives. Gamliel also controversially suggested replacing legal advisors with AI and disparaged Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, calling her "opposition leader."

Gamliel’s social media extensively promotes her husband and brother-in-law, both lawyers who represented soldiers accused of serious offenses in a high-profile case that ended with charges dropped. She has publicly praised their pro bono work and political support.

In response to criticism, Gamliel’s office stated she has disclosed all relevant information and highlighted her efforts to advance digital education, AI integration, and research infrastructure. They emphasized her role in government AI strategy improvements and international AI regulation agreements. As a member of the security cabinet, Gamliel defended her posts on Iran as natural. Her campaign blends political loyalty, security messaging, and selective education promotion ahead of the upcoming primaries.