Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 21: The Ministry of External Affairs has strongly dismissed circulating social media claims that the United States sought India’s permission under the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) to launch airstrikes on Iran from Indian soil, calling such reports “baseless” and misleading.
In an official statement shared online, the ministry urged citizens to remain cautious and avoid spreading unverified information, particularly in the context of sensitive international developments.
Authorities reiterated that LEMOA, signed in 2016, strictly facilitates logistical cooperation—such as refuelling and maintenance—between India and the United States. It does not permit either country to use the other’s territory for offensive military operations, a clarification consistently maintained by Indian officials.
The clarification comes amid a surge of misinformation linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, where several false narratives have emerged online. In recent weeks, similar claims suggesting US use of Indian ports, airspace, or intelligence support in operations against Iran have also been categorically denied by the government as “fake and false.”
The latest speculation gained traction following reports of US military action in the region, including an incident involving an Iranian warship near Sri Lanka. Officials in New Delhi have firmly denied any involvement, emphasizing that Indian facilities were not used in such operations.
The issue unfolds against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia, where military exchanges between the United States, Israel, and Iran have intensified in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has acknowledged allowing the United States limited access to its bases for specific operations aimed at securing maritime routes, particularly in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. However, British leadership, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has stressed that London does not seek deeper involvement in the broader conflict.
Iran has also reacted strongly, with Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi warning that external support for US or Israeli actions could further escalate tensions.
Amid the volatile situation, India has maintained its position of non-involvement, reiterating that its territory, infrastructure, and agreements will not be used for offensive actions against any third country.