Old Gaza Conflict Images Go Viral as False Proof of Indian Strikes in Pakistan
Misinformation Spreads After India Launches Strikes in Pakistan
After India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK on May 7, 2025, unverified claims began circulating online, alleging Indian strikes in Sialkot, a city in Pakistan’s Punjab province. These claims were accompanied by images of a burning building at night, falsely linked to the recent military action.
Right-Wing Accounts Amplify False Claims
Right-wing propaganda outlet @JaipurDialogues, known for spreading misinformation, tweeted one of these images with the caption “Sunrise in Sialkot.” This tweet was amplified by other verified accounts, including @GlobalUpdates24, further spreading the false narrative.
Fact Check Reveals Misleading Images
Alt News, an Indian fact-checking website, investigated the viral images and uncovered their true origins.
The first image, showing a burning building, was traced back to June 2021, during a period of intense Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip. The image was originally published by Al Jazeera and attributed to AFP photographer Mahmud Hams. Mahmud Hams himself posted the image on Facebook on June 16, 2021, clearly identifying it as a scene from the Gaza conflict.
The second image, also showing a fire, was found in a May 2021 article by The Sun. It depicted the destruction of the Andalus Tower in Gaza as a result of an Israeli airstrike. This image was also attributed to AFP and photographed by Mohammed Abed.
Alt News concluded that both images were taken during the 2021 Israel-Palestine conflict and had been falsely connected to the recent Indian military strikes in Pakistan.
The Danger of Misinformation
This incident highlights the ease with which misinformation can spread online, particularly in times of heightened tensions. It’s crucial to verify information from reputable sources before sharing it, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like military conflicts.
