An Iranian content creation group known as Explosive Media is utilizing AI-generated Lego videos to conduct a viral propaganda campaign targeting the United States and Israel. The group uses a combination of generative AI and Lego aesthetics to mock U.S. military operations and political figures amid ongoing conflict in the region.
- Tactics: Uses AI-generated Lego animations and catchy AI songs to disseminate pro-Iranian narratives.
- Targets: Specifically mocks President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
- Reach: Content has gained significant traction on TikTok and X, often appealing to users’ disdain for U.S. leadership.
Viral Lego Propaganda
The group recently produced a music video depicting the rescue of a downed U.S. airman. While President Donald Trump framed the operation as a success, the video portrays the mission as a failure, claiming the U.S. military lost multiple aircraft and spent $100 million to save one individual.
The animations feature Lego jets exploding into gold coins and $100 bills to symbolize the waste of taxpayer funds. Accompanying AI-generated lyrics suggest Iran is prepared for future U.S. strikes.
Targeting U.S. Leadership
Explosive Media’s content employs dark comedy, depicting heads of state as emotive Lego minifigures. One video shows Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu drafting a ceasefire request while seated next to the devil.
Other videos target Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth using AI vocal tracks that mimic the artist Macklemore. These clips reference various allegations against Hegseth, including claims of alcohol abuse and sexual assault.
The content also links the U.S. military’s actions to the president’s personal controversies, specifically mentioning ties to Jeffrey Epstein and a U.S. strike on an elementary school in Minab.
Production and State Ties
The group’s official YouTube and Instagram pages were recently removed for violating policies regarding spam and deceptive practices. However, the videos continue to circulate widely on X and TikTok.
Due to the frequency of their uploads and their ability to post during internet blackouts, some suspect the group has ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). A representative for Explosive Media denied these claims, stating they are an independent team of approximately 10 people aiming to be relatable to Gen Z.
The group uses a process starting with a script, followed by the generation of AI footage and music, which are then merged using post-production software. The representative stated that Lego serves as a “universal language” that allows them to bypass censorship and challenge Western perceptions of Iran.
A War of Online Discourse
The success of Explosive Media highlights a contrast in how AI is used for political messaging. While the Iranian group uses AI to humanize their perspective and mock foreign threats, the White House has used AI “memes” to target its own citizens and make light of domestic policies.
Critics note that this digital struggle occurs against a backdrop of muddled U.S. communication regarding the war. While President Trump has claimed the bombardment of Iran was “very complete,” he has also stated the war could go further.
The conflict continues as reports emerge of a tenuous ceasefire being violated by Israeli forces, while the Pentagon faces accusations of underreporting military casualties.
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