Amidst the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the Indian government's nodal agency for information dissemination, has debunked viral social media claims that the United States utilized Indian airspace to conduct airstrikes against Iran. These claims surfaced following reports of US military action targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, an operation allegedly dubbed "Midnight Hammer," which further heightened anxieties in the region.
The PIB, through its fact-checking arm, issued a firm denial, labeling the assertions as "fake." In a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), PIB Fact Check explicitly stated, "Indian Airspace was NOT used by the United States during Operation #MidnightHammer." This unequivocal rebuttal aims to quell the spread of misinformation and clarify India's position amidst the ongoing conflict.
The viral claims gained traction after reports emerged on Sunday, June 22, 2025, suggesting that the US military had struck three nuclear sites within Iran. These strikes, purportedly part of "Operation Midnight Hammer," saw the US military targeting the Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz nuclear sites. This action was interpreted by some as the US inserting itself into the existing conflict between Israel and Iran, adding another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation. The alleged use of Indian airspace became a significant point of contention, drawing India into the narrative.
To further reinforce its denial, the PIB referenced a press briefing by General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, where the route used by the US aircraft was explained. This explanation, according to the PIB, confirmed that Indian airspace was not part of the mission's flight path. By highlighting this official statement, the PIB sought to provide verifiable evidence to counter the false claims circulating online.
The Indian government's swift response underscores its commitment to maintaining a neutral stance in the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. India has historically maintained diplomatic relations with both Iran and the United States, and it is wary of being perceived as taking sides in the ongoing tensions. The denial of airspace usage aligns with India's broader foreign policy objectives of non-alignment and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Several reports indicate that while India has denied the use of its airspace, other nations have faced similar accusations. For instance, Pakistan has refuted claims that its airspace was used by the US B-2 bombers during the strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. These denials highlight the sensitivity surrounding military operations in the region and the potential for misinformation to proliferate rapidly.
The incident also underscores the growing importance of fact-checking mechanisms in the digital age. Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for rumors and unsubstantiated claims, particularly during times of conflict. The PIB's proactive approach in debunking false information serves as a crucial intervention, preventing the spread of potentially damaging narratives.
In conclusion, the PIB's clarification regarding the alleged use of Indian airspace by the US military is a significant development in the context of the escalating Israel-Iran conflict. By swiftly addressing the misinformation, India has reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality and dispelled any notions of its involvement in the military operations. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by misinformation in the digital age and the importance of reliable fact-checking mechanisms in maintaining accurate public discourse.
