Al-Jawahiri in Service of the Prime Minister: An Announcement Ignites Cultural Controversy in Iraq
An AI-generated advertisement depicting the renowned poet Muhammad Mahdi Al-Jawahiri serving tea to Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani has sparked widespread outrage in Iraq.
A recent AI-generated video advertisement has triggered significant public and official backlash in Iraq, featuring the esteemed poet Muhammad Mahdi Al-Jawahiri as a spectral figure serving tea to Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani in his office. This portrayal has been described as an 'insult' to a national and cultural icon, raising questions about respect for significant historical figures. The advertisement, titled 'Unified Iraq,' was released to mark the Ramadan season, but it backfired spectacularly on the creators and promoters due to its derogatory implications. The Prime Minister’s media office promptly issued a statement expressing al-Sudani's 'categorical' rejection of the video content, emphasizing that it contradicts his respect and esteem for Al-Jawahiri's literary and national stature. In addition, the Prime Minister has directed the Communication and Media Commission to conduct an 'urgent investigation' into the parties involved in producing, promoting, or airing the advertisement. By categorizing the fictional portrayal as an affront to cultural symbols and governmental institutions, the Prime Minister highlighted the reckless use of artificial intelligence technology that diverges from professional and media standards. In the aftermath of this incident, the Prime Minister reserved the legal right to pursue action against the producing entity, labeling the video as offensive to Iraq and its national figures. This incident spotlights the delicate balance between creative expression, technological advancement, and cultural sensitivity, igniting discussions on the responsible use of artificial intelligence in media.