Map controversy flares as IDF post draws Indian ire

Map controversy flares as IDF post draws Indian ire

Here’s the latest on the controversy:

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) posted a map illustrating the range of Iranian missiles on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, June 13, 2025, which inaccurately depicted India’s borders—showing Jammu & Kashmir as part of Pakistan, parts of Northeast India as part of Nepal, and Ladakh as Chinese territory  .

The post sparked swift backlash from Indian netizens and right-wing groups, some directly tagging Israeli officials, urging correction or removal  .

In response, the IDF issued at least six public apologies over the weekend and released a corrected version of the graphic—properly reflecting Jammu & Kashmir as Indian territory—though questions remain about the depiction of India’s northeastern boundaries  .

Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar described the original as a misstep “bad unintended infographics,” stating he had requested its removal or correction  .

So far, the government of India has not issued an official statement, though it has reiterated its position on Jammu & Kashmir’s status. Outside the map row, India has maintained neutrality regarding the Israel–Iran escalation and called for restraint and diplomacy  .

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Why this matters:

Maps carry deep diplomatic and political weight—especially for contested regions like Jammu & Kashmir and border areas. Such errors, even unintentional, can cause significant offense and require swift, careful responses to prevent alienating strategic partners.