Israel Spends Over $50 Million on AI-Driven Text Campaign Targeting US Public Opinion

In recent months, millions of AI-generated text messages have flooded American cell phones, funded by the Israeli government and promoted by a consultancy linked to former President Donald Trump. One such message, from a group called "Friends for Peace," asked recipients how US-Israel peace talks with Iran might affect global security. This campaign comes amid declining American public opinion of Israel, with a March Pew Research Center survey showing about 60% of US adults hold negative views of Israel due to conflicts in Gaza and Iran.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Israel is investing tens of millions of dollars in this effort, relying on innovative AI strategies and directly paying conservative media outlets. Vice President J.D. Vance recently accused Israel's influence campaign of attempting to undermine US negotiations to end the Iran conflict, claiming some Israeli actors seek to manipulate American public opinion to prolong the war.

These AI-driven messages are part of a contract exceeding $45 million signed by Israel with Brad Parscale, a longtime Trump ally. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar revealed a 2026 budget of over $700 million aimed at expanding efforts to "shape consciousness" and improve Israel’s global image. Parscale defended the campaign as necessary to counter misinformation from Iran and pro-Palestinian groups, denying any intent to disrupt US diplomacy.

Israel has hired at least six firms to assist in the US influence campaign over the past year, with 36 individuals, mostly marketers, registered as foreign agents for Israel. According to researcher Nick Cleveland-Stout of the Quincy Institute, Israel is on track to outspend all other countries on US influence efforts disclosed to the federal government this year, surpassing nations like Qatar that have historically spent heavily on lobbying.

This extensive campaign highlights Israel’s strategic use of AI and media to influence American public opinion amid ongoing regional conflicts and diplomatic challenges.