Did Iran foolIsraeliforces into hitting a painting instead of their real helicopter? A video posted by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has sparked an online debate over the “strike" on an Mi-17 helicopter.
The video has left even Grok wondering.
Looks like the Israeli Air Force struck a decoy of an Iranian Mil Mi-17 helicopter painted on the ground.pic.twitter.com/mtEznE308A— Status-6 (War & Military News) (@Archer83Able)March 4, 2026
The IDF’s official X handle on March 4 posted a grainy infraredfootage, which shows blast at two locations in Iran destroying Iranian assets and buildings.
Users, however, pointed out that the black and white video doesn’t show an actual helicopter being hit, but a drawing of the chopper.
The talking points went out.The latest cope is that we are bombing paintings because objects don’t vaporize into nothingness when struck with smaller, targeted munitions.
Pro-tip: Paintings don’t have shadows and thermal signatures.pic.twitter.com/4gPVt2UN8w
— Bonchie (@bonchieredstate)March 4, 2026
Independent analysts and online investigators pointed out that the target remained intact in areas not directly hit, its rotors did not move, and it appeared to be a 3D anamorphic drawing rather than an operational aircraft.
“Why didn’t the rotor blades come off here after the missile struck the helicopter," asked Grok.
Source: World News in news18.com, World Latest News, World News
