New Delhi, March 4 (NationPress) In a decisive response to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday firmly rejected claims that Indian ports are being utilized as bases for US Navy operations aimed at Iran.

This denial was issued through a direct social media update from the MEA's official FactCheck account, emphasizing India's commitment to neutrality and factual diplomacy amid a turbulent global environment.

The controversy began earlier that day when One America News (OAN), a conservative US television network known for its controversial reporting, broadcast allegations that Indian naval facilities, specifically in the western ports of Mumbai and Kochi, were being used by American warships to launch attacks on Iranian targets.

OAN's broadcast, seen by millions, referenced anonymous "military sources" and suggested that this covert collaboration was part of a wider Indo-US strategy against Tehran's influence in the Persian Gulf.

The report rapidly spread on platforms such as X and Telegram, sparking speculation and inciting strong reactions from users across South Asia and the Middle East.

In a rare show of assertiveness, the MEA FactCheck account stated: "The assertions made by OAN, a US-based channel, regarding the use of Indian ports by the US Navy are completely false and unfounded. We urge caution against such unfounded and fabricated statements."

This position aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy of "multi-alignment," which seeks to balance relations with the US—India's principal defense ally—while simultaneously fostering ties with Iran, a crucial energy partner and collaborator on the Chabahar port project.

As the US-Iran shadow conflict continues, highlighted by recent drone strikes and cyber confrontations, New Delhi's clarification reinforces its role as a stabilizing power.

The MEA has encouraged the public to verify information sources and report misinformation, concluding the post with a call for "responsible journalism in these challenging times."

Following the MEA's strong denial, India's image as a non-aligned mediator is further solidified, emphasizing the necessity for improved media literacy campaigns within the country.

As disinformation campaigns grow in prevalence, New Delhi's proactive digital measures may inspire similar initiatives among nations in the Global South, thereby strengthening collective resilience against misleading narratives.