Several influencers, activists and private companies have filed lawsuits against Israel’s public diplomacy body, known as the Hasbara directorate, claiming they were not paid for work carried out during online messaging campaigns.
According to reports, the legal claims accuse the Israeli government body of failing to pay millions of shekels in outstanding fees for media, advocacy and communications work. The services were allegedly provided as part of international campaigns aimed at shaping public opinion during the war in Gaza.
Court filings cited in reports say two private companies alone are seeking around 2 million shekels (about $650,000) in unpaid payments. The work reportedly included running media studios for officials, producing digital content and supporting international advocacy initiatives.
Reports about the campaigns have also said that some social media influencers were offered payments of up to about $7,000 per post to promote pro-Israel messaging online as part of wider public diplomacy efforts during the war.
Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office has acknowledged irregularities in contracting practices but said it cannot comment further due to ongoing legal proceedings. The lawsuits highlight growing scrutiny of government-backed online messaging campaigns during the conflict.
