India has categorically rejected sensational reports suggesting the United States is using Indian ports as bases for military strikes on Iran, calling the allegations baseless and fabricated amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The controversy erupted from a viral video interview on US outlet One America News (OAN), where retired US Army Colonel Douglas Macgregor claimed American warships were retreating to Indian naval facilities after their own bases were devastated in the conflict. All of our bases have been destroyed... Were having to fall back on India and its naval ports, Macgregor stated, sparking widespread speculation online about covert India-US military cooperation targeting Iran.

In a swift rebuttal, Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) took to its official FactCheck account on X (formerly Twitter), labeling the OAN narrative fake and false. The ministry shared screenshots of the interview while urging the public to verify information before sharing. Such baseless comments should be disregarded, the statement read, underscoring New Delhis commitment to countering disinformation. This isnt isolated—MEA has ramped up efforts to debunk rumors that could undermine Indias neutral foreign policy, especially as West Asia simmers.

The denial comes against a backdrop of intensified hostilities, with US and Israeli forces launching strikes on Iran since late February, including the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with missile barrages on US positions in the Gulf, sinking an American submarine and heightening risks for the nearly one crore Indians in the region who depend on stable ties for employment and remittances. India has expressed deep concern over the violence, advocating de-escalation and activating emergency helplines for its nationals.

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Key ports like Mumbai and Kochi are vital for trade, not warfare, channeling billions in commerce without any military overlay. Any perceived involvement could jolt Gulf oil supplies—a lifeline for Indias energy needs—and strain ties with Iran, a major crude supplier, while complicating partnerships like the Quad with the US. Experts note this episode highlights fake news perils in geopolitics, much like unverified Ukraine reports that once spiked Indian markets. By debunking promptly, India safeguards its non-aligned posture and economic interests.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.