I wasn't declaring anything! It was a question, which is why it ended with a question mark. It's a totally standard construction in English, and would probably include a rising tone if spoken.

I cannot understand how what's written there could have been confidently construed as a statement.

because you used the word fake in an accusatory tone. that seems to not be what you intended, but that seems more on you to word it better than to expect all readers to interpret your words differently.