MFA launches online advocacy campaign with Israeli influencers

FM spokesperson: 'public opinion is critical during wartime'

 Israeli actress and producer Noa Tishby walks the floor after ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, February 26, 2009. (photo credit: REUTERS/BRENDAN MCDERMID)
Israeli actress and producer Noa Tishby walks the floor after ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, February 26, 2009.
(photo credit: REUTERS/BRENDAN MCDERMID)

The Foreign Ministry is seeking the collaboration of prominent online influencers to bolster Israel’s global advocacy, amid the deadly war with Hamas, it announced yesterday.

Among the influencers who have heeded the call are: Arsen Ostrovsky, international human rights lawyer and digital diplomacy advocate; Noa Tishby, actress, producer, and activist for Israeli causes; Chen Mazig, writer, speaker, and LGBTQ-rights advocate; Tali Eshkoli, event organizer and social media specialist; Michael Dickson, executive director of the Stand With Us advocacy organization; Joe Zevuloni, community organizer and social media personality; Natalie Dodon, former model, digital content creator, and cultural commentator; Emily Schrader, digital media strategist and pro-Israel advocate; Michal Cotler-Wunsh, legal expert and social justice advocate; Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Jerusalem municipal politician and public relations expert.

 The logo for social media platform X, following the rebranding of Twitter, is seen covering the old logo in this illustration taken, July 24, 2023. (credit: REUTERS/DADO RUVIC)
The logo for social media platform X, following the rebranding of Twitter, is seen covering the old logo in this illustration taken, July 24, 2023. (credit: REUTERS/DADO RUVIC)

'The world must understand'

“Fighting on social networks and influencing international public opinion is critical during wartime,” said a Foreign Ministry spokesperson, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration. “The world must understand that Israel’s struggle is one of light against darkness, a life-loving culture vs lowly terrorists.”

The spokesperson pointed out that these online influencers “can play a pivotal role in elevating the spirits of Israeli citizens, providing both resilience and hope during challenging times. We are grateful for their immense contribution and unwavering support. Their dedication, stemming from deep patriotism and genuine concern for all Israeli citizens, is commendable.”

This initiative came amid heightened tensions and the ministry’s strategic decision to intensify its public relations efforts on global platforms. As part of this strategy, Foreign Minister Eli Cohen had discussions with key online influencers, encouraging them to promote and advocate Israel’s position on the international stage.