Portuguese military not involved in Porto protests

The Portuguese government has not used the military to respond to recent housing protests in Porto, even though some online claims suggested otherwise. These claims were based on a video that appeared to show military vehicles in the city.

Video shared on social media

A video was posted on an Instagram account called Portugal 24 horas, which showed military vehicles moving through Porto’s streets at night. The account resembles a 24-hour news channel, which may have made the video seem more credible to viewers.

No evidence of military deployment

Local and international media have covered the housing protests in Porto, but none have reported any military involvement. A review of the Campement de Porto pour le logement movement’s social media posts and official statements from the Portuguese Ministry of Defense found no mention of the military being deployed for the protests.

Video linked to military event

Further investigation revealed that the video was taken during a military exhibition in Porto from October 20 to 25, 2026, which celebrated Army Day. The event included about 1,500 soldiers and over 100 military vehicles.

Official confirmation of event

The municipal government of Porto confirmed the military exhibition, and the Portuguese military stated that the presence of troops and vehicles was solely for the event and had no connection to the ongoing housing protests.