Deepfakes, Bots and Disinformation: AI in the Israeli Election Campaign

Artificial intelligence plays a significant role in the Israeli elections, with concerns about its impact on voter influence through deepfakes, bots, and automated calls. A notable example is a controversial AI-generated video featuring candidate Gadi Eisenkot, which has sparked outrage due to its anti-Arab sentiment and personal implications. Research indicates that over 2,000 AI-generated posts were shared by Netanyahu's Likud party, constituting a substantial portion of their social media content. The use of AI extends beyond video production to direct voter engagement, with advanced automated calls mimicking human interaction. Additionally, a significant number of Israelis are open to using AI tools for election decisions, raising ethical questions about the influence of AI in political contexts. The Israeli government is also reportedly funding initiatives to create pro-government online content, further complicating the electoral landscape.