Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tells CBS News’ “60 Minutes” that declining U.S. support for Israel since the start of the war in Gaza is linked to social media and what he characterizes as disinformation campaigns, including foreign bots. Netanyahu says Israel has taken steps he describes as protecting civilians by moving people in Gaza and Lebanon away from combat zones. He argues that online anti-Israel campaigns have been especially effective at shaping public opinion in the United States.
Media reports cite Netanyahu’s contention that the erosion in American support correlates closely with the growth of social media. Middle East Eye adds that Netanyahu frames the issue in terms of online disinformation. The outlet also references Pew Research Center polling showing unfavorable views of Israel among U.S. adults and low confidence in Netanyahu, noting that both figures have increased compared with the prior year. CBS also examines the claim with commentary from a former CIA officer and Marine Corps veteran. The outlets present Netanyahu’s explanation without resolving disputes over the extent or sources of the influence he describes.
