Israel's AI-Powered Influence Operation in Palestinian Policy
An investigation has revealed that search engines and AI chatbot responses were manipulated through a fake American think tank.
Israel's war in Palestine has entered the age of artificial intelligence through digital influence operations conducted via fake think tanks and AI systems.
Fake Think Tank and Funding
It was determined that the fake American think tank named Hanover Public Policy Institute, which has no real offices or academics, was established for propaganda purposes. Documents under the Foreign Agents Registration Act show that the funding traces back to the Israeli state advertising agency LaPam.
AI Story Optimization
Within the scope of a $900,000 digital communication work order involving New York-based firm Piro Inc., 124 academic-style reports were produced in just nine days. These contents were specifically crafted to increase visibility in search engines and large language models.
Impact on Chatbot Responses
Tests conducted by Politico confirmed that AI systems such as ChatGPT and Perplexity cited Hanover materials in their responses to neutral questions about Gaza, anti-Zionism, and antisemitism.
Threat to Information Security
This incident highlights next-generation propaganda methods in which fabricated research institutions attempt to influence the algorithms that determine the flow of information.