The Indian government has formally dismissed claims circulating online that Iran launched a “violent attack” on the Indian-flagged oil tanker Oil Brothers Craft. The report, which has been circulating on social media, claims that the ship sustained significant damage amid regional tensions in the Persian Gulf.
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has labeled the claim a complete fabrication and issued a harsh correction. The government’s fact-finding arm has confirmed that a circulating video purporting to depict the attack was generated using AI technology. Additionally, the investigation revealed that a vessel named Oil Brothers Craft was not present on the Automatic Identification System (AIS) tracking platform, confirming that the incident was a fabrication.
The disinformation emerged against a backdrop of instability in the region, following continued reports that hostile relations between Tehran and the US and Israel are impacting maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite widespread rumors that the chokepoint will be permanently closed, Iranian authorities have indicated they intend to keep the waterway safe for friendly countries.
India’s diplomatic efforts are bearing fruit and Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fatali, has assured that Indian-flagged ships will be allowed safe passage. This commitment has been reflected in recent maritime activities, with two Indian-flagged tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, successfully transiting the Strait of Hormuz with approximately 92,700 tonnes of LPG.
These safe shipments follow the successful crossing of the crude oil tanker Shenlong, which completed its voyage from Saudi Arabia to Mumbai earlier this week. Authorities urge the public to exercise caution and verify information before sharing sensational content, especially during sensitive geopolitical disputes.
