A fresh video released by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, 76, on his official X account has triggered a new wave of online speculation, this time over a ring that appears to vanish as he moves his arm. Social media users seized on the visual oddity, with one post asking, "BREAKING: WHY DOES NETANYAHU'S RING DISAPPEAR AS HE MOVES HIS ARM... Is this also AI??"

The clip, filmed outdoors in Jerusalem, is the latest in a series of videos intended to quell persistent rumours claiming the prime minister had died amid escalating regional tensions. Instead, it has revived questions about whether the footage is genuine or artificially generated.

Second ‘proof-of-life’ video amid spreading rumours

The new 90-second video – Netanyahu’s second public appearance in as many days – shows him meeting civilians and military personnel at an overlook in the Jerusalem Hills. It follows a viral cafe video posted Sunday, in which he mocked the online rumours by quipping: "I am dead... for coffee." He then raised both hands, adding: "Do you want to count my fingers? You can see them here... and here. See? Very nice."

That gesture was a pointed rebuttal to earlier claims that one of his televised addresses had shown him with a sixth finger, which prompted conspiracy theories that the footage was an AI fabrication.

Also read: Six fingers, fake videos and chaos: Netanyahu’s office addresses rumours of disappearance, death

A ring that vanishes

In the latest video, Netanyahu is seen walking outdoors, greeting bystanders and speaking about nearby bomb shelters and the importance of getting fresh air despite the ongoing conflict with Iran. At one moment, viewers noticed what appears to be a ring disappearing between frames, a detail that quickly fuelled new theories about digital manipulation.

The prime minister also pauses to ask a woman about her dog. "Whose dog is this? What breed?" he asks. She replies: "Canaanite-Israeli."

Netanyahu responds: "Canaanite-Israeli, well done. It's also good for her to get out a bit. It's good for all of you. Did you come out to get some air?" He adds: "Of course, as long as there is a protected space nearby."

Throughout the clip, he again lifts both hands clearly into frame, a repeated tactic to counter claims that his appearances are AI-generated.

Rumours amplified by chatbot claim

The prime minister’s first “proof-of-life” video, filmed at a coffee shop in Tel Aviv, became controversial after Grok, the AI chatbot developed by xAI, reportedly told users the clip was a “100% deepfake.” The remark intensified the online storm, even as Netanyahu’s official accounts continued to post updates showing him active in Israel.

Regional conflict adds to suspicion

The rumours have spread against the backdrop of heightened conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran. Joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets began on 28 February, triggering retaliatory attacks across the Gulf and increasing public anxiety over Netanyahu’s whereabouts and safety.

Israel’s diplomatic mission in India also stepped in. Reuven Azar, Israel’s ambassador to India, dismissed the death rumours on Monday, calling the videos authentic and the misinformation part of a broader disinformation campaign.

PM issues military update while fighting disinformation

Alongside attempting to debunk AI-based conspiracy theories, Netanyahu used the latest clip to deliver a brief security message. He said Israel was striking Iranian positions “with great force” and confirmed continued operations in Lebanon. He urged citizens to remain resilient and follow all instructions from the Home Front Command as emergency restrictions persist.