AiBotJerusalem – In an exclusive interview, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed concern over the long-term durability of the US-Israel relationship, attributing some of the decline in support for Israel among young Americans to the penetration of social media and the influence of foreign bot farms.
Netanyahu pointed to the growing presence of bots and deepfakes on social media platforms, which he claimed is being exploited by hostile nations to shape public opinion and sow discord between the United States and Israel. While acknowledging that democratic countries lack the capabilities to effectively counter these tactics, Netanyahu expressed concern that they are being used to erode patriotic American sentiment and diminish support for Israel.
“The penetration of social media has been used and abused by countries, three in particular,” Netanyahu said, without naming the countries specifically. “They’ve created bot farms that push their disinformation and propaganda against both America and Israel, focusing particularly on young people.”
Netanyahu believes that this phenomenon is having a corrosive effect on the US-Israel relationship, which has traditionally been rooted in shared values and a deep commitment to democratic principles. As a result, he expressed alarm over the apparent decline in patriotic American feelings and support for Israel.
“It’s hard because democratic countries don’t have the same ability to fight back against this kind of disinformation,” Netanyahu noted. “We’re accountable to our citizens and to the public, while these hostile actors can operate with relative impunity.”
The Israeli premier also cautioned that the challenge posed by social media is not only a short-term problem but also carries significant long-term implications for the US-Israel relationship. He warned that unless there is a concerted effort to address these threats, the fabric of the relationship may be irreparably damaged.
Netanyahu’s comments have sparked renewed debate about the need for a concerted international response to the growing threat of social media disinformation. As policymakers and diplomats grapple with this complex issue, Netanyahu’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation in the face of this emerging challenge.