AI-made explosion images spread during Iran retaliation strikes

In short: AI-generated images claiming to show massive explosions in the Gulf have spread on social media during Iran’s retaliation strikes, even as officials report more limited damage.

What's going on

Images and clips online have claimed to show huge blasts and severe destruction at places linked to Iran’s targets, including US diplomatic sites and Gulf energy infrastructure. Some posts appear to use AI-generated imagery, which means pictures made by software that can create realistic scenes that never happened (like a very convincing fake photo).

The posts have circulated as the US and Israel have carried out airstrikes on Iran since late February 2026. Reports say more than 1,700 Iranian nuclear, missile, air defense, and military sites were hit. The International Atomic Energy Agency said damage was verified at the Natanz nuclear site, but it reported no radiological release.

Iran responded with large waves of drones and missiles. Reports describe hits including a drone strike connected to the US Embassy in Riyadh on March 2 and a strike near the Dubai consulate on March 3, where a fire was put out quickly and there were no reported casualties. Gulf officials have also said many incoming drones and missiles were intercepted, and some debris fell in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, causing minor injuries and temporary airport closures.

Dubai officials warned the public not to share unverified content, including older videos of previous fires being reposted as if they were current. Officials said people should rely on updates from official sources to avoid panic.

What to watch

As the conflict continues, more misleading images may spread quickly, especially during fast-moving events. Watching for confirmation from officials and credible news outlets will matter, since viral posts can make limited damage look like a major catastrophe.

Source: NYTimes