French probe links Israeli firm to fake Palestine aid campaign

French daily Liberation and Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported Thursday that an Israeli entity tied to online disinformation campaigns targeting French politicians had operated a fraudulent donation website disguised as a Palestinian aid organization. The investigation identified the site as "Sadaqah Palestine," which presented itself as a humanitarian NGO providing assistance to those affected by war and displacement before going offline.

Archived records showed the website included an online payment form soliciting contributions, though investigators found no evidence that the organization was registered as a legitimate charity in the United Kingdom where some related accounts appeared to be based. The outlets said it remains unclear whether the operation aimed to collect funds, gather personal data, or both.

Digital infrastructure

Social media accounts on X, Instagram, and Facebook promoted the initiative, displaying what investigators described as signs of inauthentic activity including suspected fake followers and coordinated engagement patterns. Technical records reviewed by the newspapers traced the website to servers and domains previously associated with BlackCore.

Election interference probe

French authorities opened an investigation into BlackCore earlier over its alleged role in an online campaign targeting candidates from France Unbowed during municipal elections. The identity of those behind the operation has not been established, according to the report.