Digitally Altered Image of Prayer Near Sydney Opera House Sparks Online Controversy

Digitally Altered Image of Prayer Near Sydney Opera House Sparks Online Controversy
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A digitally altered image showing hundreds of worshippers performing prayers near the Sydney Opera House has triggered widespread debate on social media in Sydney, after it was circulated alongside a provocative question asking whether Australia should prevent Islamic groups from praying in public spaces.

Although the post initially appeared to be a public opinion poll, the phrasing of the question and the tone of accompanying comments suggested the image was being used to stoke fear and hostility toward Muslims, turning a routine religious practice into a source of controversy and political messaging.

Media reports said the image may have been generated or manipulated using artificial intelligence. Despite questions over its authenticity, the image was widely shared as visual “evidence” of what some users described as a perceived Islamic threat, highlighting how modern digital tools can be exploited to amplify hate speech and incitement against minority communities.

Experts noted that such cases demonstrate how ordinary religious practices can be reframed as accusations in the public sphere, where a single image or symbol can be used to reshape perceptions and reinforce existing biases without any actual incident taking place.

The episode reflects broader challenges facing multicultural societies in Australia, particularly amid a rise in anti-Islam rhetoric and the growing use of digital imagery and emerging technologies to deepen social divisions.

Specialists stressed that addressing this trend requires stronger media literacy, legal awareness, and community engagement efforts aimed at correcting misconceptions and safeguarding religious rights and freedoms in public spaces.