X’s New Location Feature Exposes Inauthentic Networks Targeting Iran
A new feature on the social media platform X, under the management of Elon Musk, is revealing the geographical origins of account operators. This tool is reportedly exposing the operational backers of numerous accounts that have been actively involved in the political discourse surrounding the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Unmasking Alleged Fronts
According to reports, the feature has unveiled that the account for the “Iran Human Rights Center,” which presents itself as an independent monitor, is in fact managed from Albania and is linked to the Mujahedin-e Khalq (MEK) organization. This group has been designated by Iranian authorities as responsible for the loss of thousands of Iranian lives.
Furthermore, the location data has indicated that many accounts ostensibly tied to the Israeli regime are actually operated by bot-making companies based in India. These entities are allegedly paid to manipulate public opinion in favor of Israel.
Foreign Support for Anti-Iran Narratives
The new capability has also shed light on accounts opposing the Islamic Republic. A prominent example is the account known as the “Iranian Plateau,” which presents itself as an environmental and nature-focused page. The feature has revealed that its management is directed from North America.
The feature has also provided clarity on the management of accounts belonging to Iranian expatriates. For instance, it was revealed that the social media page of former footballer Ali Karimi, who resides in the United States, is managed from the United Kingdom. This has raised questions about the source of the sophisticated political content posted on the page, which appears to be beyond his known expertise.
This new transparency tool on X is providing a clearer picture of the international networks involved in the information landscape concerning Iran.