The Centre dismissed rumors circulating on social media alleging that the US had asked India for permission to conduct bombing raids on Iran under the LEMOA pact. The Ministry of External Affairs cautioned against misinformation and urged vigilance against false claims. Officials emphasized that such assertions lack factual basis and advised the public against sharing unverified content, especially concerning sensitive geopolitical matters.
The Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) between India and the US, signed in 2016, enables mutual access to military facilities for logistical support like refuelling and repairs. However, it explicitly prohibits either country from launching offensive military operations from the other’s territory, a stance consistently clarified by Indian authorities. Despite recent events, including a reported US military strike near Sri Lanka, India has denied any involvement and affirmed that its ports or facilities were not utilized for such actions.
The controversy arose amidst escalating tensions in West Asia following coordinated strikes by Israel and the US on Tehran and other Iranian cities, leading to significant casualties. In response, Iran conducted missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and US military installations across the region, heightening the conflict. The UK has granted the US permission to use British bases for operations aimed at degrading missile sites in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing a commitment to safeguarding international shipping without getting embroiled in broader hostilities.
