Israeli Right-Wing Networks Rapidly Disseminate Netanyahu's Messages Via Telegram and WhatsApp

An investigation by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz has revealed a vast network of right-wing Telegram and WhatsApp channels and groups that rapidly disseminate messages from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and content from the Likud party's election campaign to hundreds of thousands of Israelis. These messages often reach followers within seconds of publication, bypassing traditional media outlets.

The Haaretz investigation, which monitored 150 Telegram and WhatsApp channels and groups in the six weeks leading up to the October 27, 2026, Knesset elections, observed the transmission of over 100,000 messages. Approximately 3,500 messages were copied or forwarded verbatim across these networks. The monitored Telegram channels alone have a combined following of about 1.5 million, though audience overlap makes precise reach difficult to determine, the report stated.

Netanyahu's posts have been observed moving from his official Telegram channel to multiple other channels and groups, including "Malachim," "Zman Yamin," and "Yamin News," within minutes. These groups are linked to media personalities and right-wing activists such as Yanon Magal, Amit Segal, and Moti Castel. One example cited was a message from Netanyahu attacking Channel 12 for allegedly seeking to overthrow his government, which was quickly shared across numerous platforms.

The investigation also noted the spread of messages attacking Haaretz newspaper, alleging election interference, and targeting opposition figures like former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. Conspiracy theories, claims of internal betrayal, and doubts about polls showing a decline in Netanyahu's support were also prevalent.

Right-wing channels show a significant numerical advantage in followers. Amit Segal's channel has around 370,000 followers, while "The Unapologetic Right" channel, run by the activist known as "Hatzel," exceeds 290,000. In contrast, channels for Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid have significantly fewer followers, with Bennett at about 8,000 and Lapid at 4,500. Gadi Eisenkot reportedly has no dedicated channel.

The report highlighted that messaging apps bypass social media algorithms, delivering messages directly to users' phones, often as instant notifications. Data from the Israel Internet Association indicates that 97% of Israelis use WhatsApp daily and about 70% use Telegram, making them powerful tools for political communication. International studies have linked messaging apps to the rapid spread of misinformation during elections.

The investigation delved into the "Malachim" network, managed by Avi Ravina, which disseminates pro-Likud messages and attacks political opponents. Ravina stated his WhatsApp network has about 100,000 followers and denied receiving direct payment from Likud for current campaign messages, though he acknowledged the content targets Likud supporters. Records show at least 30 Likud Knesset members and ministers paid Ravina approximately 440,000 shekels from their constituent communication budgets over the past year, with further payments exceeding 400,000 shekels in the first half of 2026. The "Ha'Kastel" network also promotes pro-Likud content across various platforms, though its operators remain anonymous. Ravina denied any connection to "Ha'Kastel," claiming its operators copy his content.