Researchers link Israeli entities to global anti-Muslim disinformation

Researchers have identified a massive online influence operation targeting Muslim communities globally. The campaign utilized fake accounts and advertisements to spread hateful narratives across social media platforms. Evidence points to entities based in Israel with ties to government influence efforts.

Marc Owen Jones and Sohan Dsouza characterized the scheme as among the most extensive documented efforts to manipulate public opinion. Their analysis reveals a sophisticated network designed to amplify anti-Muslim sentiment through coordinated digital activities and targeted advertising strategies.

Advertisements within the campaign featured aggressive slogans such as THIS IS AN INVASION. Other content claimed that Qatar is Islamising Europe. These messages were distributed widely to provoke fear and hostility toward Muslim populations in various regions.

The researchers stated they cannot assert definitely that Israel is responsible. However, evidence shows entities involved are based in Israel. These groups have connections to influence operations run by the Israeli government, according to the study findings.

Initial operations were traced to Israel through Vietnamese proxy companies. Meta took enforcement action against these networks in May 2024. The operation resurfaced in November before shifting its infrastructure to Brazilian corporate entities to evade detection.

A company representative stated they are constantly working to identify and disrupt coordinated inauthentic behaviour. This comment was provided regarding ongoing efforts to remove fake accounts and limit the spread of disinformation online.

The report highlights the evolving tactics used by state-linked actors to manipulate public opinion. By shifting between different corporate entities and geographic locations, the operators attempt to maintain their influence despite platform enforcement measures.