Gaza Conflict Goes Online

Both sides in the Gaza conflict are using the Web as a forum for stating their case and gaining support.

Look on YouTube and you can find a channel hosted by the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), with some 10,000 subscribers. The IDF Spokespersons Unit, which is also running a blog, says:

“We thank you for visiting us and will continue to update this site with documentation of the IDF’s humane action and operational success in operation ‘Cast Lead.’" The footage shown is of aid trucks entering Gaza, rocket stocks uncovered, and of rocket attacks against Israel.

The Israeli consulate in New York even used Twitter to solicit questions for a press conference, according to Vnunet.

On the other side, Hamas has set up its own site, while hackers have reportedly been attacking Israeli sites, and Facebook has groups voicing support for both sides. ‘I Support the Israel Defense Forces In Preventing Terror Attacks From Gaza’ has more than 30,000 subscribers and ‘Sympathise with Gaza’ over 20,000.