June 20, 2025 – Digital Desk: Social media platforms have been flooded with viral videos falsely claiming to show a United States military attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities. However, a thorough investigation by Dawn.com and independent fact-checkers has confirmed that these videos are misleading and unrelated to any recent event in Iran.
The clips, some showing explosions and fighter jets, have been widely circulated on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and WhatsApp, fueling panic and misinformation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
What the Videos Actually Show
Analysis of the videos reveals that:
- One clip is traced back to a 2023 Israeli airstrike in Syria, reused out of context.
- Another video, showing an aerial bombing, was actually from military drills conducted by the U.S. in Nevada in 2022.
- A third clip appears to be from a video game simulation but was edited to appear like breaking news footage.
Dawn’s digital forensics team used reverse image searches and metadata analysis to verify the origin of the content, confirming that none of the videos depict a current or real-time attack on Iranian soil.
Official Sources Confirm No Attack Occurred
Both Iranian state media and Pentagon officials have denied reports of any such strike.
“There is no truth to claims circulating on social media about a U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear facilities,” a Pentagon spokesperson told international media.
Similarly, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization reported that all nuclear sites are operating normally and no incidents have been reported at any facility, including Natanz and Fordow.
The Role of Misinformation in Conflict Zones
Misinformation during periods of geopolitical tension can exacerbate fears, provoke unrest, and distort public perception. Media watchdogs are urging users to verify sources before sharing unconfirmed news, particularly when it comes to military and political developments.
Digital security experts warn that deepfakes, edited clips, and AI-generated videos are increasingly being used in propaganda and psychological warfare.
