Why Israel is a friend of budding autocrats around the world

Israel is increasingly becoming a close ally to authoritarian leaders worldwide, as global public sentiment turns against the Jewish state. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's regime is employing various tactics to maintain its influence, including electoral meddling in countries across Europe, South America, and beyond. High-profile examples include presidential hopeful Flavio Bolsonaro's campaign in Brazil and the potential involvement of Israeli-backed candidates in Colombia, Honduras, and Brazil.

Israel's involvement in political subversion is facilitated by its arms and surveillance industries, such as NSO Group, which has developed sophisticated spyware like Pegasus. Prominent individuals, like Shalev Hulio, who played a crucial role in selling Pegasus to Panama, have diplomatic ties to Israel, suggesting a closer relationship between the nation and its arms industry. The data extracted by these companies can be used for political leverage, allowing Israel to maintain significant diplomatic influence.

As public opinion turns against Israel, it is employing increasingly aggressive methods, such as bot farms and disinformation campaigns, to promote pro-Israel candidates and undermine pro-Palestinian candidates. These tactics threaten the democratic process and free elections globally. The Israeli government's actions are destabilizing governments and fostering instability in Latin America, including Honduras, where Israeli interests may be at play.

The impact of these actions on the world stage remains uncertain, but Israel's relationship with authoritarian regimes appears to be strengthening in the face of global criticism.