In the age of real-time information, social networks have become a preferred means of sharing news and events happening around the world. However, it is important to keep in mind that not everything that circulates on the internet necessarily reflects reality. This is what we are discovering today with the alleged convoys of Egyptian civilians heading towards the Israeli border to fight alongside the Palestinians.
Numerous posts on X (formerly Twitter) have surfaced recently, purporting to show videos of Egyptian vehicles traveling to Gaza to support the Palestinians. However, after careful checking, it turns out that these videos are actually old and not related to the current situation.
The first video, showing a parade of pickup trucks on a desert road, was filmed in 2021. It comes from an Egyptian TikTok account that has shared several similar videos over the years. This footage does not show a convoy heading towards the Israeli border, but rather a local tradition or festive event.
The second video, showing a convoy of white cars crossing a sandy desert, was filmed in 2022. Upon further research, it turned out that this footage was taken during camel races in South Sinai. There is therefore no link with civil mobilization towards the Israeli border.
It is important to exercise caution when sharing information on social media. It is too easy to fall prey to fake news and misinformation. More than ever, it is essential to verify sources, consult reliable media and cross-reference information before sharing anything.
As readers and users of the internet, we all have a responsibility to contribute to a transparent and reliable information environment. Let us be vigilant, skeptical and demanding regarding the veracity of the information we encounter online.