UPDATE: A viral video claiming to show a horse rider waving an Australian flag at Bondi Beach has been confirmed as an AI-generated fake. The misleading clip circulated widely after a confrontation between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrators earlier this month, sparking outrage and confusion.
The video, posted on September 9, 2025, features notable errors that clearly indicate its artificial origins. Observers quickly pointed out discrepancies, including an incorrect depiction of the Australian flag, which features an extra star. Additionally, the ocean waves and the promenade’s pavement do not match the authentic appearance of Bondi Beach, with the latter inaccurately shown as plain grey concrete rather than the actual stone-flecked surface.
Authorities, including AAP FactCheck, have debunked the video, emphasizing that no credible news sources report a horse rider waving an Australian flag at the beach on that date. The video was initially shared by user Ehtesham Ahmad on Facebook, who encouraged viewers to “share this left, right and centre.”
In a detailed analysis, experts highlighted unnatural visual elements, such as bystanders whose feet merge with the ground and elongated fingers of individuals in the video. The timestamp reveals further anomalies, including small flags appearing to pass through the horse and inconsistent wave patterns in the background.
The incident comes just days after a real confrontation at Bondi Beach on September 7, 2025, when demonstrators supporting Palestine clashed with those backing Israel. This backdrop likely fueled the video’s rapid spread across social media platforms.
This development raises concerns about the growing prevalence of AI-generated content that can mislead the public in sensitive situations. As misinformation continues to infiltrate digital spaces, AAP FactCheck urges users to verify content before sharing.
The fact-checking organization remains dedicated to providing accurate information, working to uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity. For the latest updates and fact checks, follow AAP on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Stay vigilant and informed as the digital landscape evolves, and be wary of media that may not represent reality.
