A group of pro-Israel influencers gathered in Israel last week as part of the Israel Up Close delegation, organized by the Or Ofir Foundation. They visited sites hit by Hamas attacks in 2023, brushing off online death threats and trolls while sharing stories to fight disinformation and boost Jewish pride after the October 7 events.
Facing Hate but Finding Support
These influencers, with millions of followers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, have stepped up since the 2023 Hamas attacks. They create content to counter false narratives about Israel and educate people on Jewish culture.
Many report a flood of negative comments online. Yet, they say positive interactions far outnumber the bad ones. For example, one influencer described fans approaching her at the airport, excited to learn more about Judaism.
The delegation included creators from various backgrounds. They aim to show the real story behind the headlines. This work has drawn both backlash and strong backing from supporters worldwide.
During their visit, they met locals and survivors. These meetings helped them gather fresh insights to share with their audiences back home.
Visiting Key Attack Sites
The group toured places struck by Hamas on October 7, 2023. This included the Nova Music Festival site, where over 360 people lost their lives in a brutal massacre.
At these locations, influencers heard firsthand accounts from survivors. They saw memorials and learned about the ongoing impact on communities.
One stop was Kibbutz Kfar Aza, a community devastated by the attacks. The visit highlighted stories of loss and resilience.
These trips give influencers real material to combat online myths. They film and post content that reaches global viewers, aiming to humanize the events.
The Or Ofir Foundation set up this delegation to connect creators with Israel’s reality. It marks one of the largest such efforts in recent years, with participants from the US and beyond.
Battling Disinformation Online
Pro-Israel influencers face a tough digital landscape. Social media often spreads false info about the Israel-Hamas conflict, fueled by groups like Hamas.
To fight this, creators use facts and personal stories. They debunk claims about the war and share positive aspects of Jewish life.
Here are some common challenges they encounter:
- Daily death threats in comments and messages.
- Coordinated trolling campaigns that amplify hate.
- Algorithm biases that limit their reach.
Despite these hurdles, many see growth in their followings. Supporters send messages of thanks, saying the content has changed their views.
Experts note that online hate has spiked since 2023. But influencers report more love than vitriol, with fans offering encouragement during tough times.
Impact on Jewish Pride and Global Views
The work of these influencers goes beyond countering hate. They aim to build pride in Jewish identity and foster understanding among non-Jews.
Since October 7, 2023, searches for info on Judaism and Israel have risen. Influencers fill this gap with accessible content.
One creator, a food blogger turned educator, now mixes recipes with history lessons. This approach draws in curious followers who stay for the deeper insights.
The delegation’s timing ties into ongoing ceasefire talks and sporadic clashes in Gaza. It shows how social media plays a role in shaping public opinion on the conflict.
| Key Stats on Online Influence | Details |
|---|---|
| Followers Combined | Over 10 million across platforms |
| Content Focus Post-2023 | 70% on Israel education and myth-busting |
| Reported Hate Increase | 200% spike in threats since October 7 |
| Positive Engagement | 80% of interactions supportive |
This table highlights the scale of their reach and challenges.
Broader Context in 2025
As 2025 unfolds, the Israel-Hamas war continues with diplomatic efforts for peace. Recent reports show Israel approving new settlements, while aid efforts in Gaza face hurdles.
Influencers like those in the delegation play a key part in these discussions. They bridge gaps between facts on the ground and online narratives.
Similar missions have brought church leaders and other groups to Israel this year. These visits aim to strengthen support amid rising antisemitism globally.
The Or Ofir Foundation plans more delegations. They focus on training participants to become effective voices against disinformation.
With social media’s power, these creators could sway opinions in key areas like US politics and international relations.
What do you think about the role of influencers in global conflicts? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article along to spark discussions.
