false flag operation

A false flag operation is a tactic used to deceive people or other parties by disguising the true identity of those responsible for an action or event. Typically, this involves staging an attack or event that appears to be carried out by one group while being secretly conducted by another. The goal is often to manipulate public opinion, justify military action, or shift blame. The term originates from the practice of pirate ships flying false flags to deceive their targets about their true allegiance. It highlights the use of misrepresentation in political or military contexts.