Israeli Government Funds AI-Generated Messages for US Influence Campaign
The Wall Street Journal reported that Israel's government funded a $45 million contract with political consultant Brad Parscale to conduct a widespread influence campaign in the United States using AI-generated text messages and digital content designed to improve Israel's public image. The campaign involved millions of AI-generated messages sent to American phone numbers and efforts to optimize AI system responses and search results in Israel's favor.
What happened
The Wall Street Journal reported that the Israeli government funded a $45 million contract with Brad Parscale, a former digital director for President Trump, to influence American public opinion using AI-generated messages.
Millions of text messages were sent to American phone numbers from accounts named 'Emma,' 'Sarah,' and 'John' under the organization 'Friends for Peace,' posing questions about US-Israel-Iran negotiations and global security.
The campaign included AI-generated content designed to improve search results and responses from AI systems like ChatGPT and Claude, creation of websites, digital content, partnerships with digital marketing companies and conservative media networks, and plans to employ social media influencers.
Reported impact
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced at the end of 2025 that Israel allocated a budget exceeding $700 million for 2026 to expand government efforts to 'shape consciousness' and improve Israel's image globally.
US Vice President JD Vance accused Israel of manipulating American public opinion and attempting to undermine US negotiations with Iran to prolong the war.
Index analysis
A Pew Research Center poll from March 2026 showed approximately 60% of Americans viewed Israel negatively due to its handling of conflicts in Gaza and Iran.
Israel engaged at least six companies and dozens of registered foreign agents to influence American public opinion, with researchers noting this spending level ranks among the largest for foreign influence campaigns in the United States.
Governance controls
Supporters of the campaign justified these influence efforts as necessary to counter campaigns led by Iran and pro-Palestinian movements worldwide.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.