Fact-Check: Fabricated Image Falsely Links Iraqi MP Sajjad Salem to Israeli Figure
In the lead-up to the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections, scheduled to take place in approximately ten days, a manipulated image has surfaced on social media platforms. The image purports to show Iraqi MP Sajjad Salem, a candidate from the Al-Badil alliance, in a meeting with an Israeli individual. However, a fact-check by Annahar reveals that this claim is false, and the image has been fabricated.
The Truth Behind the Image
Annahar’s investigation discovered that the original photo, which the manipulated image is based on, was published on May 1st. The original image documented a meeting between Sajjad Salem and former Iraqi Defense Minister Khaled al-Obeidi. The manipulated version replaced al-Obeidi’s head with that of Aryeh Makhlouf Deri, the head of the Israeli Shas party. The Israeli flag was also added to the scene.
The alterations are evident upon closer inspection. The positions of Sajjad Salem, the chairs, the flooring, and the backdrop all match the original photograph. However, the color of al-Obeidi’s shoes and the wall behind them have been changed. The face of Deri was identified through a reverse image search on Yandex, which led to the original photo of him with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Motivations and Disinformation
The dissemination of this fabricated image coincides with intensified campaigning for the Iraqi elections. Social media has seen a surge in disinformation targeting candidates and rival political blocs. The manipulated image aims to tarnish Sajjad Salem’s reputation by falsely linking him to Israel, a sensitive issue within the Iraqi political landscape.
Sajjad Salem, who is also a proponent of integrating the Popular Mobilization Forces (Al-Hashd al-Shaabi) into other security ministries, advocating for the disarmament of armed militias, and undermining Iranian influence in Iraq, has been the target of unsubstantiated accusations of working with foreign entities. The image is part of a broader effort to undermine his credibility and influence the upcoming elections.
It is important to note that the sources spreading the manipulated image are unverified and unreliable Iraqi pages. No credible Iraqi, Israeli, or international media outlets have reported on this fabricated claim. This highlights the importance of critical thinking and verifying information, particularly during periods of intense political activity.
Source: Annahar
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