Algeria Under Fire: Fake Military Propaganda Video Sparks Mockery and Exposes Fragility of Official Media Narrative

ALDAR/

A video recently broadcast by Algerian state media has sparked widespread controversy and ridicule after it was revealed that the scenes depicting a massive Algerian naval fleet were not real, but rather generated using artificial intelligence. It appears the Algerian authorities aimed through this video to present an exaggerated image of the country’s naval capabilities in an attempt to convince the domestic public of a military strength that lacks real-world evidence.

The footage, which quickly spread across social media and international media outlets, showed warships and modern naval equipment maneuvering in precise coordination, suggesting large-scale naval drills. However, military analysts and experts were quick to question the video’s authenticity, pointing out clear signs of artificial intelligence and visual effects in its production.

The video soon became the subject of satire on several international channels, which highlighted what they described as a “propaganda attempt” aimed at projecting a false image of Algerian military power—at a time when the country is grappling with mounting internal challenges on political, economic, and social fronts.

Observers believe the use of AI-generated content for military propaganda reveals a deeper crisis of confidence within the ruling system, reflecting a strategy to compensate for its modest field capabilities with artificial media displays. The incident also underscores the problematic use of national media as a propaganda tool that lacks transparency and professional standards, further widening the trust gap between citizens and state institutions.

Meanwhile, activists and independent journalists in Algeria have called for the establishment of a free and responsible press that reports facts instead of beautifying illusions—especially on issues relating to national security and the country’s international reputation.

The key question remains: Will the Algerian regime continue to rely on fabricated propaganda to convince its domestic audience, despite the exposure of its falsity abroad? Or will this incident mark a turning point toward reassessing its media and military communication strategies? Time will tell.