Don’t be surprised if you think you’re watching a video by IDF’s spokesperson Avichay Adraee and notice something feels off because this Lebanese TikTok creator almost fooled us all.
Mahmoud from northern Lebanon has gone viral for his uncanny resemblance to Adraee, causing confusion and, frankly, some laughs amidst all the chaos.
For those unfamiliar, the real Adraee has become a recognizable figure during this conflict, often addressing Lebanese audiences with evacuation warnings or statements targeting Hezbollah.
Now, this TikToker has seemingly stepped into his shoes by not only looking like Adraee but also mimicking his serious tone and communication style.
At first glance, you might mistake this doppelgänger’s videos for actual updates from Adraee himself. He looks quite frankly like a long-lost brother of the IDF’s spokesperson, while also mimicking his tone, accent, posture, and even having similar voices.
The creator’s TikTok username “afiday_akhroei” causes even more confusion, as you might mistake it for the real thing at first glance.
The resemblance has left viewers unsettled. Some initially thought the TikTok videos were official messages from the IDF. “Imagine if he turns out to be your twin!” one commenter joked. Others, however, are less amused, questioning the timing of such content during an active conflict.
When asked about the resemblance to Avichay Adraee and how it has affected his life, Mahmoud opened up to the 961 about the significant challenges he faces because of this resemblance. “I didn’t have the freedom to choose my appearance. This resemblance has caused me to be hated by many in Lebanon and the Arab world, despite being Lebanese myself,” he said.
He also explained how people in his community have reacted to the resemblance. “I’ve become known by nicknames like ‘Our Avichay’ or ‘Halal Avichay.’ It’s not something I ever asked for or enjoy,” he added. The resemblance, he shared, has not only invited mockery but also impacted his daily life. “The resemblance to an enemy figure has restricted my life to the point where I can’t live normally because of the insults I face on the streets.”
Despite the striking similarities, Mahmoud maintains a strong sense of identity. When asked if he deliberately imitates Adraee, he firmly stated, “I would never honor someone who has harmed Lebanon and Gaza by imitating them. This is how I was created.”
The TikTok creator’s videos have sparked many memes and commentary across Lebanese social media. Comparisons to Adraee are everywhere, with captions like, “Avichay moved to Beirut and started posting TikToks,” circulating widely. While some find the content satirical, others have voiced concerns about the confusion it could cause in an already tense situation.
Out of necessity, Mahmoud explained, he turned to social media to make a living. “I started posting humorous videos on TikTok to entertain and to make ends meet because my financial situation is dire,” he said. However, he clarified to the 961 that his intentions were purely lighthearted. “I’ve tried to benefit from the resemblance by making people laugh, but never to emulate or promote his ideology.”
The resemblance has also affected his professional life, leaving him unemployed. “I lost my job because of this resemblance. My employer said I was too much trouble. But I believe in God—He doesn’t abandon anyone,” he shared with a sense of resilience.
He emphasized his loyalty to his country: “I’m Lebanese, and I remain loyal to my country. My spirit and origins are completely different from his. I hold my dignity and honor for my homeland above everything else.”
So far, the real Adraee has not addressed his viral twin, but the online buzz continues to grow. In typical Lebanese fashion, people have embraced the humor amidst the chaos, proving that even during tense times, Lebanon’s sharp wit and sense of humor remain undefeated.
And one thing’s for sure: Lebanon has no shortage of surprises, even on TikTok.
