[Air-L] Ballistic Fakes: Disinformation and Fact-Checking in the Israel–Iran War

[Edan Ring]

Hi All

Happy to share a new study published this week by ISOC-IL, which examines
patterns of disinformation and false content spread online during the
Israel-Iran war, and the global fact-checking efforts in response to it.

https://en.isoc.org.il/disinformation-resilience-israel/ballistic-fakes/research

Based on an analysis of 592 fact-checks published by 50 organizations in 15
languages, the study provides the first systematic mapping of the false and
misleading content spread during the war, alongside the activities of
fact-checking organizations worldwide. It offers a unique and rich overview
of the digital battlefield and the information environment during and
around a regional full-scale armed conflict. The report was authored by
Nitsan Yasur, Yael Ram and myself as part of ISOC-IL’s ongoing DRI project
<https://isocreasearch.my.canva.site/isoc-il-dri> promoting resilience
against disinformation in Israel

The report's key findings highlight the highly visual nature of wartime
disinformation and the growing role of AI-generated content and tools.
Notably, we observed what we call “Ballistic Disinformation” - false claims
and fabricated visuals and videos, designed to exaggerate destruction and
harm, amplify enemy casualties, and project military strength.

According to our analysis, 1 in 5 false claims debunked during the war was
AI-generated, making AI the leading tool for disinformation production and
manipulation - surpassing traditional manipulation techniques. Yet, most
misleading content still relied on real images and videos shared out of
context , time or place (e.g., explosions from China, protests from the
U.S., bombshells from Lebanon), re-framed with false local narratives.

For the full report in English -
https://en.isoc.org.il/disinformation-resilience-israel/ballistic-fakes/research

For further inquiries, insights and collaborations feel free to contact me

Edan


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Visit my website: https://www.edanring.co.il/