Baghdad-Israel established a clandestine military outpost in Iraq’s desert to support its air campaign against Iran and carried out airstrikes against Iraqi forces that nearly uncovered the facility, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday, citing people familiar with the matter, including senior U.S. officials.
According to the report, the base was built shortly before the start of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, with Washington’s knowledge. The installation reportedly housed Israeli special forces and served as a logistics hub for the Israeli Air Force, facilitating operations deep into Iranian territory.
The facility also included search-and-rescue teams positioned to assist any Israeli pilots shot down during missions. When a U.S. F-15 fighter jet was shot down near Isfahan, Israel offered assistance, though American forces ultimately conducted the rescue operation themselves. Israeli airstrikes were reportedly carried out to help secure the area during the rescue.
Incident with Iraqi Forces
The secret base was nearly exposed in early March after a local shepherd reported unusual military activity, including helicopter movements, according to Iraqi state media.
Iraqi forces were dispatched to investigate but reportedly came under attack, resulting in the death of one soldier and injuries to two others. Lt. Gen. Qais Al-Muhammadawi, deputy commander of Iraq’s Joint Operations Command, described the incident as a “reckless operation” carried out without coordination or approval.
Subsequent assessments by Iraqi authorities indicated the presence of foreign military forces in the area. Baghdad condemned the incident and later filed a complaint with the United Nations, attributing responsibility to the United States, though U.S. officials denied involvement.
Citing one of its sources, the WSJ said Israeli forces launched airstrikes to keep Iraqi troops at a distance and prevent discovery of the site.
Strategic Significance
Security analysts say such forward operating positions are often established ahead of planned military campaigns. Michael Knights of Horizon Engage noted that setting up temporary bases for reconnaissance and logistics is a common pre-operational practice.
Iraq’s western desert, characterised by its remote and sparsely populated terrain, has historically been used for covert and special operations. Analysts say its geography makes it suitable for concealed military activity, a report by Al-Mayadeen TV said.
Local reports have occasionally cited unusual helicopter movements and other military activity in the region during the conflict, while Israeli operations against Iran reportedly involved thousands of airstrikes.
In early March, Israeli Air Force commander Tomer Bar alluded to covert missions in a message to personnel, saying special units were conducting operations “which could ignite the imagination.” Bar stepped down as Air Force chief in early May.
The revelations highlight the extent of covert operations during the war and underscore the risks of escalation in a region already strained by overlapping military engagements and competing geopolitical interests.
