American tech companies are deeply intertwined in Israel’s military operations, with investments and partnerships expanding significantly since the start of the war in Gaza, which to date has killed nearly 50,000 people, with some estimates placing that number closer to 400,000. Newly surfaced data indicates that collaboration between the Israeli government and U.S. companies has intensified. Yet, most Americans remain unaware of how these companies are involved—or how it could affect them.
Israel’s use of artificial intelligence in warfare isn’t new. In May 2021, during an 11-day assault on Gaza, the Israeli military described the campaign as “the world’s first AI war.” The offensive relied on targeting programs developed by Unit 8200, Israel’s elite intelligence division. Among them were “Gospel” and “Alchemist,” AI-driven systems designed to analyze vast amounts of data and rapidly select targets.
These tools didn’t disappear after the ceasefire. Instead, they were refined and enhanced. By October 7, 2023, when Israel launched its latest assault, these AI-driven targeting programs had become central to its military strategy. By its own admission, the Israeli military had depended upon commercial AI technology before developing its own AI programs. This technology came from various American companies that began developing deeper ties to the Israeli army.
Although Israel’s highly classified AI systems are often portrayed as the product of…
