Israel's $50 million influence campaign reaches beyond Iran ceasefire - report

Israel has reportedly allocated at least $50 million to US-based firms in an effort to bolster its image and sway public opinion within the United States, the Wall Street Journal reported Saturday.

The report alleges that the Israeli government engaged at least six firms to assist in its public relations campaign. This initiative has led to the registration of over three dozen new individuals, many from the marketing sector, as foreign agents representing Israel.

These efforts coincide with concerning poll data, as a July survey by the Pew Research Center indicated that 42% of American adults hold an unfavorable opinion of Israeli people, and a significant 69% view the Israeli government unfavorably.

Israel's budget for improving its global standing and public image has seen a dramatic increase, with a 2026 budget set for over $700 million. This represents a substantial jump from previous years, with the Foreign Ministry receiving $150 million in 2025 specifically for public diplomacy, known in Hebrew as hasbara.

Notably, the report highlights that former Trump campaign manager Brad Parscale was allegedly hired for a contract exceeding $45 million to spearhead a series of campaigns aimed at enhancing Israel's standing in the US. His contract reportedly involved integrating messaging into Salem Media Network properties. Both Parscale and Salem Media have stated that their hosts are not paid to express specific views on Israel, asserting that the funds were used for advertising and that their hosts' opinions are their own.

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Our hosts have built their careers by saying exactly what they think, not by reading from someone else’s script.