Recent circulating images claiming to show an IDF soldier repairing a vandalized crucifixion statue are AI-generated and not authentic. The photos, identified by Google Gemini’s SynthID watermark detection, emerged after a real incident of vandalism by an IDF soldier in southern Lebanon was recorded and condemned by Israeli officials. The fake images, posted on social media, depict scenes of the soldier revering the statue, but analysis confirms they are manipulated using artificial intelligence tools.

The original vandalism incident was documented through authentic photos shared on platforms like X, with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu condemning the act. These real images show the damage and weathering of the religious monument over time. However, the fabricated images, which include scenes of repair and reverence, are Creative AI productions designed to mislead viewers. Investigations by Google Gemini verified the AI origin of these images, highlighting the importance of digital literacy and the dangers of misinformation circulating on social media channels during sensitive conflicts.