“False Flag” (term)

A "false flag" is a deliberate act or operation carried out by one party to appear as though it was done by another, often an adversary. This tactic is used to manipulate public perception, justify certain actions, or achieve specific political or military goals. For example, a government might stage an incident and blame it on an enemy to justify retaliation. The term originates from maritime practices where ships would fly false flags to deceive others. In modern contexts, false flag operations are often associated with covert or clandestine activities intended to mislead and influence public opinion or policy.