Harshvardhan Mishra
Introduction
In times of heightened geopolitical tension, the internet often becomes a breeding ground for misinformation and panic-inducing fake news. A recent video circulated widely on social media falsely claimed that a missile attack had occurred at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.
However, the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check unit (PIB Fact Check) has thoroughly debunked the claim, revealing that the video is from a gas station explosion in Aden, Yemen, and has nothing to do with India or its airports.
The Fake Claim: “Missile Attack on Delhi Airport”
The video shows a massive explosion followed by black smoke billowing into the sky, and was shared with captions such as:
“Breaking: Missile strikes Delhi Airport amid rising tensions. Situation critical.”
These posts were sensationalized, shared without context, and gained traction quickly—especially during ongoing reports of heightened India–Pakistan tensions.
🚨 Missile Attack on Delhi Airport?
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 10, 2025
An old video is being falsely shared as footage of a missile strike on New Delhi Airport.#PIBFactCheck
❌ This video shows a gas station explosion in Aden, Yemen, from August 2024.
✅ It has no connection to the current India–Pakistan… pic.twitter.com/pFqfDO50nm
PIB Fact Check Debunks the Misinformation
On May 9, 2025, @PIBFactCheck officially clarified:
🚨 Missile Attack on Delhi Airport?
An old video is being falsely shared as footage of a missile strike on New Delhi Airport.
#PIBFactCheck
❌ This video shows a gas station explosion in Aden, Yemen, from August 2024.
✅ It has no connection to the current India–Pakistan situation.
#IndiaFightsPropaganda
The Real Source of the Video
- The video in question originates from a gas station blast in Aden, Yemen, that occurred in August 2024.
- The incident was covered by international media and is completely unrelated to India or its defense infrastructure.
- The original footage is available on YouTube, confirming its authenticity and origin.
The Dangers of Viral Misinformation
❗ Mass Panic:
People at airports or in Delhi might believe the claim, leading to unnecessary fear.
❗ Diplomatic Sensitivity:
False reports during geopolitical tensions can exacerbate hostility or disrupt peace efforts.
❗ Misdirection:
It distracts from real issues and can interfere with national security responses.
How to Stay Informed and Responsible
✅ Always Verify:
Check claims on verified platforms like:
✅ Report Misinformation:
Forward suspicious content to:
- Email: factcheck@pib.gov.in
- WhatsApp: +91-8799711259
✅ Think Before Sharing:
Avoid being a link in the misinformation chain. Even well-meaning shares can do harm.
Explore more fake viral
- PIB Fact Check: Fake Claim of Indian Female Air Force Pilot Captured in Pakistan Debunked
- Fact Check: Viral Video of MLRS Attack is from a Video Game, Not a Real Pakistani Strike on India
- Fact Check: False Claim About Sukhoi Su-30MKI Being Shot Down in Muzaffarabad
- Fact Check: False Claim by China Daily About Indian Jets Crashing in Kashmir
- PIB Fact Check: Fake Claims About Explosions at Jaipur Airport Debunked
- PIB फैक्ट चेक: दिल्ली आग की घटना पर फैलाई जा रही फर्ज़ी अफवाहों का सच
- Fact Check: No Advisory Issued by Government to Turn Off Location Services on Phones
- Understanding @PIBFactCheck: India’s Digital Shield Against Fake News During Crisis Situations
Conclusion
The viral video claiming a missile attack on Delhi Airport is entirely fake and misleading. The footage is from Aden, Yemen, and has no connection to India’s security or any conflict. This is yet another attempt at propaganda and disinformation, which must be identified and countered swiftly.
Always trust official sources and help in India’s collective fight against fake news.
