MEA Rejects Allegations Linked to Former US Officer’s Statement Amid Escalating Iran–Israel Conflict
New Delhi: Amid the intensifying Iran–Israel conflict, the Government of India has firmly rejected claims that the United States Navy is using Indian ports to launch attacks on Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs described the allegations as “false and baseless”, cautioning the public against misinformation circulating on social media.
The clarification came after a viral video surfaced online in which Douglas MacGregor, a former US military officer, claimed that American forces were relying on Indian ports due to the destruction of their own military bases and harbour facilities.
Viral Video Triggers Controversy
The controversy began after Macgregor made remarks during an interview suggesting that US naval operations were forced to depend on India for logistical support during the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran.
In the viral clip, the former officer allegedly stated that US bases and harbor installations had been destroyed and that the military was “forced to rely on India and Indian ports,” describing it as an “undesirable situation.”
The claim quickly gained traction across social media platforms, triggering speculation about India’s role in the geopolitical crisis unfolding in West Asia.
MEA Issues Firm Clarification
Responding to the viral claims, India’s Ministry of External Affairs dismissed the allegation outright. The ministry’s fact-checking handle on the social media platform X issued a clear statement denying the claim.
“We caution against such baseless and fabricated statements,” the MEA said, emphasizing that there is no truth to reports suggesting India has allowed the use of its ports for military operations against Iran.
The government further clarified that India has not permitted any foreign military action to be conducted from its ports and described the circulating reports as misinformation and rumours.
India’s Stand on the Iran–Israel War
As the conflict between Iran and Israel enters its sixth day, India has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
New Delhi has called on all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint, avoid further escalation, and prioritise civilian safety.
At the same time, Indian authorities are focusing on the safety of their citizens in the region. The government has been actively evacuating Indian nationals from conflict-affected areas as part of emergency assistance efforts.
Officials confirmed that hundreds of Indian citizens have already been brought back to India from regions impacted by the ongoing war.
Rising Misinformation During Global Conflict
Experts note that periods of international conflict often lead to the rapid spread of unverified claims and misinformation on social media platforms. Governments and fact-checking agencies worldwide have repeatedly urged the public to rely on verified official sources for accurate information.
India’s swift response to the viral claim underscores its effort to prevent the spread of false narratives while maintaining a neutral diplomatic stance amid the unfolding crisis.
