Israel Spends Over $45 Million on AI-Driven Influence Campaign Targeting US Public Opinion

In recent months, millions of AI-generated text messages posing as members of a group called "Friends for Peace" have been sent to American cell phones, asking about the impact of US-Israel peace talks with Iran on global security. A Wall Street Journal investigation revealed these messages are part of a $45 million influence campaign funded by the Israeli government and managed by Brad Parscale, a former digital campaign manager for Donald Trump. Parscale reportedly receives about $1.5 million monthly for this effort, which primarily targets young conservative and MAGA supporters in the US.

The campaign, dubbed "Don Quixote" due to its perceived naivety, aims to counteract a growing negative perception of Israel among Americans, with a Pew Research survey showing 60% of US adults hold unfavorable views of Israel amid conflicts in Gaza and Iran. Israel has hired at least six companies and dozens of registered agents to assist in this extensive public opinion effort, which includes AI-driven chatbots, pro-Israel websites, and paid advertisements on conservative media platforms like Salem Media.

Parscale's contract with Israel is notably larger than those of other foreign influence consultants, and his work includes integrating pro-Israel narratives into Salem Media's conservative podcasts. The campaign also involves creating content to influence AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Claude, aiming to promote positive views of Israel and report public reactions back to the Israeli government. Some recipients of the AI-driven texts, such as Jewish artist Beth Sordot, expressed suspicion about the authenticity of the conversations.

Beyond Parscale's operation, other groups like Show Faith by Works have sought to send pro-Israel messages to millions of Christian churchgoers and students in the US Southwest, although their plans have shifted toward different projects. Israeli efforts also extend to left-leaning American audiences, with influencer marketing companies managing social media campaigns related to Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has actively engaged conservative influencers during recent US visits to bolster support.

The campaign has drawn criticism from US politicians like Vice President J.D. Vance, who accused Israel of attempting to manipulate American public opinion to prolong conflict with Iran. Israel plans to allocate over $700 million in 2026 to expand its global image-shaping initiatives, according to Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. Israeli officials did not respond to interview requests, while supporters argue the campaign counters Iranian and pro-Palestinian influence efforts.