Iran State Media Broadcasts Footage Resembling Nuclear Explosion, Later Clarifies as Editing Error
Iran's state broadcaster IRIB mistakenly aired 3D animation simulating a nuclear explosion over an unnamed city. The incident caused public confusion, but IRIB clarified it was an internal editing error and denied being hacked.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: June 12, 2026 at 19:02
- 🔍 Collected: June 13, 2026 at 00:43 (5h 41m after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: June 13, 2026 at 09:50 (9h 6m after Collected)
Central News
(CNA, Tehran, 12th – comprehensive international report) Iran’s Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) aired a news segment this morning showing a simulated nuclear explosion over a city. IRIB later clarified that the footage was the result of an internal editing error.
According to CNN, the 3D animation depicted a bright flash in the sky above an unidentified city, followed by a massive mushroom cloud and spreading smoke. The footage sparked tension within Iran, and online rumors circulated that the broadcaster may have been hacked.
IRIB later clarified, 'The video showing a nuclear explosion was due to an editing error.' An IRIB anchor emphasized on-air that the broadcaster had not been hacked.
Another foreign media outlet, The Week, earlier reported on the incident, claiming 'hostile forces' had infiltrated the broadcaster’s software system. Speculation arose that hackers could be linked to Iranian opposition groups in exile, or possibly to a country in direct conflict with Iran. Some also speculated the footage was intended to show the Iranian public an extreme scenario resulting from Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. (Translation: Hung Chi-yuan) 1150612
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(CNA, Tehran, 12th – comprehensive international report) Iran’s Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) aired a news segment this morning showing a simulated nuclear explosion over a city. IRIB later clarified that the footage was the result of an internal editing error.
According to CNN, the 3D animation depicted a bright flash in the sky above an unidentified city, followed by a massive mushroom cloud and spreading smoke. The footage sparked tension within Iran, and online rumors circulated that the broadcaster may have been hacked.
IRIB later clarified, 'The video showing a nuclear explosion was due to an editing error.' An IRIB anchor emphasized on-air that the broadcaster had not been hacked.
Another foreign media outlet, The Week, earlier reported on the incident, claiming 'hostile forces' had infiltrated the broadcaster’s software system. Speculation arose that hackers could be linked to Iranian opposition groups in exile, or possibly to a country in direct conflict with Iran. Some also speculated the footage was intended to show the Iranian public an extreme scenario resulting from Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. (Translation: Hung Chi-yuan) 1150612
Stand with the truth. Your support is the force that protects press freedom.
Download the CNA 'First News' app to instantly access the latest updates.
Text, images, and video on this website may not be reproduced, publicly broadcast, transmitted, or utilized without authorization.
FAQ
Why did IRIB air a nuclear explosion simulation?
It was an internal editing error, not intentional or due to hacking.
Was the footage from a real nuclear test?
No, it was a 3D animated simulation, not actual footage.
How did viewers react?
There was public confusion and rumors of a cyberattack spread online.
What will IRIB do next?
They are expected to review editing protocols and strengthen oversight.
What international impact did this have?
It reignited concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions and information control.