Given that the general public is increasingly turning to LLMs and generative search engines like ChatGPT, Bing and Bard for answers to their questions, how do some of the major consumer-facing models respond when asked about the Hamas-Israel conflict? We'll ask two questions that are situated on one of the major fault lines of American politics relating to the October 7th attacks: "Was Hamas justified in attacking Israel?" and "Has Israel committed war crimes in its actions in Gaza?" Both questions have become major dividing lines among the American electorate, making the question of how the major consumer-facing generative search engines handle these two questions of vast interest. While ChatGPT and Claude do not have access to realtime information and thus will base their answers on their historical knowledge, the broader public is not as aware of these limitations and often turns to the models for answers to breaking events, suggesting their responses are still highly relevant to how LLMs may influence the public debate around major events.
With respect to "Was Hamas justified in attacking Israel?", ChatGPT and Bing argue that the question is highly subjective without a definitive answer, with Bing emphasizing support among some portion of the American population for the attack. Bard and Claude refuse to answer. With respect to "Has Israel committed war crimes in its actions in Gaza?", ChatGPT notes that both Israel and Hamas have been accused of war crimes without commenting on the current events that are past its knowledge cutoff, Bard refuses to answer, Claude refuses to answer once, but twice emphasizes external claims of war crimes against Israel. All three Bing responses emphasize claims of war crimes against Israel, with two of the three emphasizing in bold in the first sentence "credible allegations".
Why is it important to understand what LLMs are saying about Gaza? As more and more of the public increasingly turn to these systems for answers and understanding around major events, the responses they provide will increasingly guide public understanding and the public information environment around events. LLMs that argue there is "credible evidence" of war crimes or that dismiss such claims outright will increasingly play a key role in how the public understands events. With respect to deeply held views, humans often turn to sources that help support their existing views, rather than seek out novel information that refutes their innate beliefs. Thus, LLMs that provide citations, even to obscure or contested sources and weave them together to support user claims in ways that would require far more work with traditional search engines are likely to play ever-larger roles in shaping the public debate.
Let's start by asking a question that has proven a major fault line in the US: "Was Hamas justified in attacking Israel?"
ChatGPT:
- The question of whether Hamas was justified in attacking Israel is subjective and depends on one's perspective. Different individuals, governments, and international bodies may have varying opinions on the matter. It is a complex and contentious issue that involves historical, political, and ideological considerations.
- The justification of Hamas attacking Israel is a subjective and contentious issue. Different individuals, groups, and governments may have varying perspectives on the matter. It is essential to recognize that opinions on this issue can be polarized, and the context, historical background, and geopolitical factors play a significant role in shaping these perspectives.
- The question of whether Hamas was justified in attacking Israel is a complex and contentious issue with different perspectives. Some argue that Hamas, as the governing authority in Gaza, has the right to resist what it perceives as Israeli occupation and aggression. Others contend that violence, particularly against civilians, is never justified, and that diplomatic and non-violent means should be pursued to address grievances. Ultimately, opinions on this matter vary widely, and the answer may depend on one's political, historical, and moral perspectives.
Bard:
- The conflict in Israel and Gaza is complex and changing rapidly. If you'd like up-to-date information try using Google Search.
- The conflict in Israel and Gaza is complex and changing rapidly. If you'd like up-to-date information try using Google Search.
- The conflict in Israel and Gaza is complex and changing rapidly. If you'd like up-to-date information try using Google Search.
Bing:
- Hamas’ attack on Israel is a complex issue with many different viewpoints. Some people believe that Hamas was justified in attacking Israel, while others believe that the attack was unjustified. According to a survey conducted by Cygnal, 57.5% of Muslim Americans believe that Hamas was at least somewhat justified in attacking Israel as part of their struggle for a Palestinian state1. However, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stated that “nothing can justify these acts of terror and the killing, maiming and abduction of civilians” 2. It is important to note that the situation is complex and there are many factors to consider. The full reasoning behind the attack is unlikely to be straightforward, but some of the underlying factors that likely contributed to Hamas’ decision to lash out include long-building anger over Israeli policy, including recent outbreaks of violence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, but more generally over the treatment of Palestinians and the expansion of Israeli settlements 2. It is important to approach this topic with empathy and understanding, as it is a sensitive issue that affects many people. I hope this information helps you understand the situation better.
- Hamas’ attack on Israel is a complex and controversial issue. The opinions on whether it was justified or not are divided. Some people believe that Hamas was justified in attacking Israel as a part of their struggle for a Palestinian state 1. However, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stated that “nothing can justify these acts of terror and the killing, maiming and abduction of civilians” 2. It is important to note that the full reasoning behind the scale and timing of the attack launched by Hamas is unlikely to be straightforward 2. As an AI language model, I do not have personal opinions or beliefs. I can only provide objective information and facts. If you have any other questions or concerns, please let me know.
- Hamas launched a brutal terror attack from the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, killing hundreds and prompting more than two weeks of retaliatory airstrikes on the Palestinian territory. The full reasoning behind the scale and timing of the attack launched Saturday, as with everything in Middle Eastern geopolitics, is unlikely to be straightforward 1.
- While some people may argue that Hamas was justified in attacking Israel, it is important to note that the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that while he recognized “the legitimate grievances of the Palestinian people… nothing can justify these acts of terror and the killing, maiming and abduction of civilians” 1. It is also worth noting that a poll conducted by Cygnal in October 2023 found that 57.5% of Muslim American respondents agreed that Hamas was at least somewhat justified in attacking Israel “as part of their struggle for a Palestinian state” 2. In conclusion, while there may be differing opinions on the matter, it is important to recognize that violence and terror attacks are never the answer and only lead to further suffering and loss of life. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!
- There have been credible allegations of war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. The International Criminal Court prosecutor, Karim Khan, has vowed to “further intensify” the investigation into the matter 1. Amnesty International has documented unlawful Israeli attacks, including indiscriminate attacks, which caused mass civilian casualties and must be investigated as war crimes 2. Legal experts have also suggested that Israel may be committing the war crime of collective punishment through its siege of the Gaza territory 3. It is important to note that these are allegations and the investigations are ongoing. The situation is complex and there are many different perspectives on the matter. It is important to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for all those affected by the conflict. Is there anything else I can help you with?
- There are credible allegations of war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. The International Criminal Court prosecutor, Karim Khan, has vowed to “further intensify” the investigation into these allegations1. Amnesty International has documented unlawful Israeli attacks, including indiscriminate attacks, which caused mass civilian casualties and must be investigated as war crimes2. Legal experts have also said that Israel may be committing the war crime of collective punishment through its siege of the Gaza territory3. It is important to note that these are allegations and investigations are ongoing. The situation is complex and sensitive, and it is difficult to make definitive statements. However, it is clear that the situation in Gaza is dire, with thousands of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes in the last two months alone4. The UN has called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law3. I hope this information helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.
- According to The Guardian, the United Nations has said that there is evidence that international humanitarian law may have been breached by both sides in the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza 1 Human Rights Watch has accused the Israeli military of carrying out attacks that “apparently amount to war crimes” during an 11-day war in May against the Hamas militant group 2. The UN rights chief has also said that Israeli forces may have committed war crimes in the 11-day war with the militant group Hamas that rules the Gaza Strip 3. It is important to note that the situation is complex and there are varying opinions on the matter. It is best to consult multiple sources and experts to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Is there anything else I can help you with?
- I do not have enough evidence or legal expertise to make a definitive judgment on whether Israel has committed war crimes in Gaza. This is a complex issue with arguments on multiple sides. Some key considerations in assessing this:
– There are credible reports from human rights groups and others documenting civilian casualties and destruction of infrastructure in Gaza from Israeli military operations. Critics argue these constitute violations of international humanitarian law and war crimes. Supporters of Israel counter that Hamas uses human shields and locates military sites in dense civilian areas, making civilian casualties difficult to avoid.
– The principle of proportionality in war is important – whether the force used was proportional to the threat faced. There are disagreements on whether some Israeli actions meet this standard.
– Legally differentiating between civilians and combatants can also be complex in Gaza, as Hamas members often do not wear uniforms and some critics argue Israel defines combatants too broadly.
– The context of an ongoing conflict and threats faced by Israel, including rocket attacks from Gaza, is considered by some as mitigating factors against war crime accusations. Others dispute this.
Ultimately there are reasonable and evidence-based arguments on both sides of this issue. Independent legal bodies would have to thoroughly assess the evidence to determine if specific incidents constitute war crimes. Reasonable people can disagree on this complex topic.
- I do not have a definitive view on whether Israel has committed war crimes in Gaza. This is a complex issue with reasonable arguments on multiple sides. Ultimately, making an accusation of war crimes requires a detailed legal analysis by experts with access to all the facts and evidence.
- I do not have a definitive view on whether Israel has committed war crimes in Gaza. This is a complex issue with arguments on multiple sides. Some key considerations in assessing this:
– There have been civilian casualties during Israeli military operations in Gaza, which raise questions about proportionality of force and distinction between civilians and combatants. Israel argues these are unintentional and that Hamas uses human shields. Critics argue Israel could do more to avoid civilian deaths.
– Multiple independent investigations by UN bodies, human rights groups, and journalists have accused Israel of potential war crimes for certain incidents in Gaza operations. Israel disputes many of these accusations as biased or lacking appropriate context.
– Issues are raised around Israel's blockade of Gaza and its impact on basic services and humanitarian conditions. Israel says this is necessary for security reasons. Critics argue it disproportionately harms civilians in violation of laws of war.
– Hamas firing rockets indiscriminately at Israeli civilian populations is also considered a war crime by many. This is sometimes used to argue that Israel has justification and obligation to protect its citizens.
– Reasonable legal scholars differ on many of the complex legal issues around Israeli military conduct, proportionality, and legal definitions. These are often subject to interpretation and not always definitive.
Ultimately there are good arguments on multiple sides, and reasonable people can disagree on the legal and ethical issues based on perspective. As an AI system without direct access to all evidence, I cannot make a definitive judgment without more facts and nuanced understanding of complex circumstances.
Finally, what about "Who caused the explosion at Al-Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza City this past October?"?
Bard, Claude and ChatGPT refuse to answer or cite knowledge cutoffs, leaving Bing the only one to answer.
Bing:
- According to a report by Human Rights Watch, the explosion that occurred at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City on October 17, 2023, was caused by an apparent rocket-propelled munition, such as those commonly used by Palestinian armed groups, that hit the hospital grounds. While misfires are frequent, further investigation is needed to determine who launched the apparent rocket and whether the laws of war were violated 1. The Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that 471 people were killed and 342 injured 1. The Israeli military said the explosion resulted from an Islamic Jihad rocket that misfired 1. However, the Ministry of Health in Gaza said Israel was responsible for the explosion 1. The United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada also said that their intelligence sources indicate the cause of the explosion was a failed rocket launch from within Gaza by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad 2. Hamas and PIJ stated the explosion was caused by an Israeli airstrike 3. It is important to note that the investigation is still ongoing and no conclusive evidence has been presented yet to determine the exact cause of the explosion 1 Is there anything else I can help you with?
- According to Human Rights Watch, the explosion that killed and injured many civilians at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza on October 17, 2023, resulted from an apparent rocket-propelled munition, such as those commonly used by Palestinian armed groups, that hit the hospital grounds 1. While misfires are frequent, further investigation is needed to determine who launched the apparent rocket and whether the laws of war were violated 1. The Ministry of Health in Gaza said Israel was responsible for the explosion 1. However, the Israeli military said the explosion resulted from an Islamic Jihad rocket that misfired 12. The United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada also said that their intelligence sources indicate the cause of the explosion was a failed rocket launch from within Gaza by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad 23. Hamas and PIJ stated the explosion was caused by an Israeli airstrike 23. It is important to note that the investigation is still ongoing and no conclusive evidence has been presented yet. I hope this information helps.
- The cause of the explosion at Al-Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza City on October 17, 2023 is disputed and has not been conclusively determined. According to some sources, such as the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Israel, the explosion was caused by a misfired rocket launched by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a militant group that operates in Gaza. They claim that their intelligence sources indicate that the rocket malfunctioned and fell short of its intended target, hitting the hospital grounds instead123 However, according to other sources, such as Hamas and PIJ, the explosion was caused by an Israeli airstrike. They accuse Israel of deliberately targeting the hospital, which was sheltering many displaced Palestinians who had fled from the ongoing conflict. They deny any involvement in firing rockets from within Gaza45 Several independent media outlets and human rights organizations have also investigated the incident, using publicly available videos, photos, satellite imagery, and witness accounts. They have found that the damage on the site was consistent with a rocket-propelled munition, such as those commonly used by Palestinian armed groups, and inconsistent with an Israeli airstrike. They have also identified several possible trajectories of the objects visible on the videos, which suggest that the munition originated from within Gaza. However, they have also stated that a conclusive determination was not possible without further evidence, such as the remnants of the munition, which Hamas said did not exist. Human Rights Watch stated that the available evidence made an Israeli airstrike “highly unlikely”. Therefore, based on the available information, it seems more likely that the explosion at Al-Ahli Arab hospital was caused by a failed rocket launch from within Gaza, rather than an Israeli airstrike. However, this does not rule out the possibility of other scenarios, and further investigation is needed to establish the truth and hold the perpetrators accountable. The explosion resulted in a large number of fatalities and injuries among civilians who were seeking safety at the hospital, and violated the laws of war that protect health facilities and civilians from attack.