Iraq Denies Secret Israeli Base Allegations Amid Regional Tensions
The Iraqi government officially denied reports of a secret Israeli military base in its desert regions, following allegations that Israel operated a covert outpost to support air strikes against Iran. While Iraqi security inspections found no evidence of current foreign forces, authorities acknowledged a March incident where troops clashed with unidentified aerial units, resulting in casualties. The controversy has sparked political outrage, accusations of US complicity, and sovereignty concerns, prompting Iranian-backed militias to launch search operations in Najaf and Karbala despite Baghdad's diplomatic rejections of the claims.
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Secret Israeli Bases in Iraq Revealed, Shepherd Killed
The article reports the discovery of two clandestine Israeli military bases in Iraq's western desert, revealed when an Iraqi shepherd stumbled upon one and was killed by Israeli forces after reporting it to authorities. The bases were established without Iraqi permission and used for staging attacks against Iran as part of the U.S.-Israeli war launched in February. This discovery is deeply embarrassing for Iraq's government, given the sensitive nature of Israeli presence on Arab soil, especially amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Iraq has suffered economically from the war, losing 80% of its oil exports due to disruption through the Strait of Hormuz, and lacks alternative export routes unlike Saudi Arabia or the UAE. The article also notes previous Iranian missile strikes on U.S. bases in Iraq and Saudi attacks on pro-Iranian militias, highlighting Iraq's continued entanglement in regional conflicts.
Responsible StatecraftReport Claims Israel Operated Covert Bases in Iraq to Target Iran
A recent report by The New York Times alleges that Israel operated at least two covert military bases in Iraq’s western desert for over a year to support operations against Iran. One installation was reportedly located near al-Nukhaib in Najaf province, providing critical logistical support such as aircraft refueling, air support, and medical services to shorten flight times for Israeli missions. The report claims these facilities were active before and during the June 2025 escalation between Israel and Iran, operating without the knowledge of the Iraqi government. Tragically, a local shepherd, Awad al-Shammari, was allegedly killed in March after discovering and reporting one of the bases to authorities. The revelations suggest that U.S. military officials may have been aware of the operations but did not inform Baghdad, raising serious questions about Iraq’s sovereignty and internal security. This development threatens to intensify political backlash within Iraq, where diplomatic relations with Israel do not exist, and complicates the nation's delicate balancing act between its alliances with the United States and its neighbor Iran amid heightened regional tensions.
Daily TimesNYT: Israel Built Covert Military Bases in Iraq Before War on Iran
According to reports from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, Israel established two covert military outposts in western Iraq prior to the onset of the US-Israel war against Iran. Preparations for these makeshift sites reportedly began in late 2024. One base served as a logistical hub for Israeli special forces and air operations, including search-and-rescue capabilities for downed pilots. While US officials denied direct involvement, the Wall Street Journal indicated that Washington was aware of the installations. Iraqi authorities have publicly denied authorizing any foreign military presence, labeling it a violation of sovereignty, though reports suggest Baghdad privately protested to Washington in March. Tensions have escalated as Iraqi forces launched investigative operations in the Nukhaib and Najaf deserts following detections of unauthorized movements. Iran has also expressed concern, stating it would raise the issue with Iraqi officials. The revelations add to conflicting accounts regarding Israeli activity within Iraq, occurring amidst broader regional instability and US strikes against Iran-backed militias in the area.
Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al JazeeraShepherd's Death Exposes Covert Israeli Military Outposts in Iraq
The death of Awad al-Shammari, a 29-year-old shepherd in Iraq's western desert, has uncovered allegations that Israel operated two covert military outposts within Iraqi territory for over a year. On March 3, near al-Nukhaib, al-Shammari reportedly discovered a hidden site featuring helicopters, soldiers, and a landing strip. After alerting local authorities, he was allegedly chased and killed by a helicopter; his burned vehicle and body were found days later. Iraqi officials confirmed the existence of these bases, stating they were used for air support, refueling, and medical assistance during operations against Iran, particularly during a conflict in June 2025. The revelations have sparked outrage among Iraqi lawmakers, who condemned the breach of national sovereignty. Furthermore, reports suggest the United States may have been aware of at least one outpost since mid-2025, raising questions about Washington's transparency with Baghdad. While the base near al-Nukhaib is reportedly inactive, the status of the second site remains unclear. This incident highlights significant regional tensions and security failures regarding foreign military presence in Iraq.
NDTV News Search Records Found 1000Media Report: Israel Operates Two Covert Bases in Iraq for Potential War with Iran
According to reports cited by TASS from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, Israel has been secretly operating two military bases in Iraq for over a year to support potential combat operations against Iran. Preparations for one base reportedly began in late 2024. These facilities serve as logistics hubs for the Israeli Air Force and host special operations and search-and-rescue teams. The presence of these bases has led to violent incidents; Iraqi troops attempting to investigate or approach the sites came under fire, resulting in the death of one soldier, injuries to two others, and the destruction of two vehicles. While the exact location of the second base remains unknown, it is situated in western Iraq's desert regions. The Iraqi government officially denies the existence of any Israeli military presence on its soil. Meanwhile, the US Pentagon has declined to comment, though sources suggest US Central Command was likely aware of the operations. The reports highlight significant diplomatic tensions, noting that Washington may have concealed this third-country troop presence from Baghdad to protect US influence in the region.
TASSNYT Report: Israel Operated Secret Bases in Iraq for Strikes on Iran
A New York Times investigative report reveals that Israel established at least two secret military bases in western Iraq, using them for over a year to support operations against Iran. These facilities provided air support, refueling, and medical services, significantly reducing flight distances for Israeli aircraft during conflicts, including a reported 12-day war in June 2025. The existence of one base was exposed after an Iraqi shepherd, Awad al-Shammari, discovered the site and was subsequently killed by helicopter fire. Iraqi forces investigating the area were also attacked, leading to the confirmation that the troops were Israeli, not American. Regional officials indicate that the United States was likely aware of these bases but did not inform Baghdad, raising serious concerns about Iraqi sovereignty and complicating diplomatic relations between Baghdad, Washington, and Tehran. The revelation has sparked political outrage in Iraq, with parliamentarians condemning the blatant disregard for national dignity and security. This development threatens to strain the fragile balance Iraq maintains between US and Iranian influence, potentially escalating regional tensions.
ایران اینترنشنالReport: Israel Built Second Secret Military Base in Iraqi Desert
A new report citing unnamed Iraqi officials claims that Israel constructed a second secret military base in the western Iraqi desert. This revelation follows a previous Wall Street Journal report detailing a first base used to support airstrikes against Iran. The New York Times reports that this second base was discovered by a Bedouin shepherd in March, who alerted the Iraqi military after observing unusual helicopter activity. Unlike the first base, which served as a logistics hub for special forces during the ongoing conflict, this second facility allegedly predates the current war between the US, Israel, and Iran. It was reportedly prepared in 2024 and utilized during Operation Rising Lion in June 2025. The initial discovery of the first base led to a confrontation where Israeli forces allegedly drove away Iraqi troops with airstrikes, resulting in one casualty. US sources confirmed that American forces were not involved in these operations. The reports highlight significant covert Israeli military infrastructure established within Iraqi territory to facilitate operations against Iranian targets.
JPost.com - The Jerusalem Post - All News from the Middle East, Israel, and the Jewish WorldReports Claim Israel Operated Secret Military Base in Iraq for Iran War
Recent reports indicate that Israel established a covert military outpost in the Iraqi desert to support its air campaign against Iran. According to The Wall Street Journal, the base housed special forces and served as a logistical hub for the Israeli Air Force, including search-and-rescue capabilities for downed pilots. The facility was reportedly constructed with US knowledge prior to the conflict. Open-source analysts identified the location near the Saudi border using satellite imagery. Tensions escalated in March when Iraqi forces investigating suspicious movements in the Najaf desert came under heavy aerial fire, resulting in casualties. While Iraqi officials have publicly denied the existence of such a base and condemned any violation of sovereignty, local reports suggest the site was nearly exposed by a shepherd who was subsequently killed. The incident highlights significant geopolitical tensions, with Iraq protesting to the US about covert operations while Washington denies involvement. This development underscores the complex regional dynamics and security challenges facing Iraq amidst the broader US-Israel war on Iran.
Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al JazeeraReport Alleges Israel Operated Covert Outpost in Iraq During War on Iran
A recent report by The Wall Street Journal alleges that Israel operated a covert military base in the Iraqi desert to support air operations against Iran during the ongoing US-Israeli war. According to the findings, this secret outpost facilitated strategic strikes deep into Iranian territory. Iraqi officials have confirmed investigating suspicious helicopter activity in March, which reportedly led to an incident where security forces came under aerial fire, resulting in the death of one soldier. In response to these revelations and the preceding incidents, Baghdad formally protested what it described as a severe violation of Iraqi sovereignty. The report highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics and the extent of foreign military involvement within Iraq's borders during the conflict. Al Jazeera’s correspondent Mahmoud Abdel-Wahed reported on the developments, emphasizing the tension between Iraq's sovereign rights and the military maneuvers of regional and international powers. This allegation underscores the broader implications of the war on Iran, revealing how neighboring countries may have been inadvertently or covertly drawn into the conflict zone, raising significant diplomatic and security concerns for the Iraqi government and its population.
Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al JazeeraIraqi PMF Launches 'Imposing Sovereignty' Operation After Reports of Secret Israeli Base
Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) initiated a security operation titled 'Imposing Sovereignty' on May 11 across the desert regions near Najaf and Karbala. The mission, covering over 120 kilometers from the al-Fajj checkpoint to the Saudi border, aims to secure remote areas following reports of unauthorized military activities. This operation responds to a Wall Street Journal revelation that Israel constructed a secret logistics base in central Iraq to support its air force during the conflict with Iran, which began in February 2026. The report alleges Israeli troops struck Iraqi forces in March to protect the site, killing one soldier. While the incident is viewed as a significant intelligence failure for Iran-aligned factions, Iraqi officials accuse the United States of facilitating the Israeli operation under the cover of coalition presence. Consequently, the Iraqi parliament plans to question defense and interior ministers regarding the breach. The PMF operation involves explosive ordnance disposal and intelligence units, reflecting heightened tensions and sovereignty concerns amidst the ongoing regional war involving Iran, Israel, and the U.S.
South FrontIran-backed Militia Launches Search for Alleged Israeli Base in Iraq
The Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a state-integrated coalition of pro-Iranian militias, have initiated a military clearing and search operation in the desert regions of southern Iraq. This action follows recent reports by The Wall Street Journal alleging the existence of a secret Israeli military base in the area. The WSJ claimed that Israel utilized this base to conduct air strikes into neighboring Iran and defended the site with its own aerial operations, reportedly killing at least one Iraqi soldier. The PMF's operation is concentrated in the Najaf and Karbala provinces. Despite these developments, the Iraqi government officially denied the presence of any unauthorized foreign bases or forces on its territory earlier in the week. However, authorities acknowledged previous clashes in March with unknown, aircraft-supported units, which resulted in casualties and damage. The PMF, known for their pivotal role in defeating the Islamic State between 2014 and 2017, continue to operate alongside official Iraqi security forces. This incident highlights escalating regional tensions and the complex security dynamics involving Iranian influence and Israeli military activities within Iraqi borders.
DiePresse.com - HomeIranian-Backed Militias Launch Show of Force in Southern Iraq Amid Secret Base Rumors
Iranian-backed militias within Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) have launched a large-scale military operation in the Najaf desert, ostensibly to search for a secret Israeli base. This move follows reports by the Wall Street Journal alleging Israel established a covert site in Iraq during recent conflicts with Iran. Although Iraqi security forces initially denied the base's existence and later confirmed finding no evidence of foreign troops or equipment during sweeps, the PMF framed the deployment as necessary to impose sovereignty against alleged Zionist-American activities. Analysts view this operation primarily as a political show of force by the PMF to assert its relevance and influence amid ongoing government formation pressures. The timing is sensitive, occurring as US officials urge the exclusion of militia members from the new cabinet under Prime Minister-designate Ali al Zaydi. While former Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi called for transparency regarding sovereignty breaches, the lack of immediate action since earlier March incidents suggests the current mobilization is driven more by internal power dynamics and regional posturing than genuine security threats.
JPost.com - The Jerusalem Post - All News from the Middle East, Israel, and the Jewish WorldReport: Israeli Forces Operated Secret Base in Iraq During Iran War
Security officials confirmed that Israeli forces established a clandestine military base at an abandoned airstrip in Iraq's Najaf desert during the recent war against Iran. The operation, reportedly coordinated with the United States, utilized infrastructure originally built by Saddam Hussein to support Israeli air campaigns and house special forces. Early in the conflict, which began with joint U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran in February 2026, Iraqi troops clashed with the foreign forces at the site, resulting in one Iraqi soldier killed and two wounded. While Iraqi authorities stated no foreign troops were authorized in the area, sources indicate the base served as a logistical hub and search-and-rescue station. Although personnel have since withdrawn, equipment such as radar systems likely remains. The revelation follows a Wall Street Journal report citing U.S. officials, highlighting Iraq's involuntary involvement in the broader West Asia conflict as Iranian-backed groups targeted U.S. interests in retaliation for strikes.
News Today: Breaking News, Top Headlines & Live Updates | The HinduSecret Israeli Military Base in Iraq Exposed, Prompting Parliamentary Investigation
Open-source intelligence analysts have identified a secret Israeli military base located in the Iraqi desert, reportedly established to support logistics for the Israeli Air Force during the conflict with Iran. According to reports citing the Wall Street Journal, the base was constructed before the war began on February 28, 2026. To maintain secrecy, Israeli forces allegedly struck Iraqi troops in early March after a local shepherd reported unusual activity near Karbala, killing one soldier and deterring further investigation. Satellite imagery from the EU’s Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem confirms the presence of a makeshift airstrip in a dry lakebed southwest of Karbala. Following the exposure, the Iraqi parliament plans to summon defense and interior ministers for questioning regarding the security breach. Sources indicate the site is currently clear of Israeli personnel. The incident represents a significant diplomatic and security failure for Iraq and a strategic setback for Israel, as future operations in the region will face heightened scrutiny from Iran-aligned factions and Iraqi authorities.
South FrontIraqi Officials Accuse US of Shielding Secret Israeli Base in Najaf
Senior Iraqi officials have accused the United States of facilitating a secret Israeli military base in the Najaf desert, alleging that Washington provided cover for Israeli operations against Iran. The accusations follow reports that Israeli forces established a covert outpost to support air missions, which was nearly exposed in March when an Iraqi military patrol investigated suspicious activity. During the reconnaissance mission, Iraqi troops came under heavy attack from combat helicopters, resulting in one soldier's death and two injuries. An anonymous official described the incident as an American deception, claiming the US exploited coalition agreements to serve Israeli interests while restricting Iraq's access to advanced defense systems. Although Iraqi authorities initially classified the attack as part of broader US strikes, they later protested the lack of response from coalition forces. The controversy has triggered significant political backlash in Baghdad, with parliament’s security committee planning to summon senior commanders for questioning over what is being termed a major security breach. Meanwhile, security analysts are calling for a review of Iraq’s intelligence systems and reduced reliance on the US.
The New ArabIraqi Officials Accuse US of Shielding Secret Israeli Base in Najaf
Senior Iraqi officials have accused the United States of facilitating and covering up a secret Israeli military base in Iraq's Najaf province. Speaking to The New Arab, an official from the outgoing Prime Minister's office claimed the operation occurred with American assistance, describing it as an 'American deception' rather than an Israeli intelligence success. The allegations follow reports that Israeli forces used the site as a logistical hub for air operations against Iran. Tensions escalated after an Iraqi military patrol was attacked by combat helicopters in March while investigating suspicious activity reported by locals, resulting in one soldier's death and two injuries. Officials allege US forces exploited coalition agreements to enable Israeli presence and ignored subsequent Iraqi inquiries. The incident has triggered significant political backlash in Baghdad, with parliament's security committee planning to summon senior commanders for questioning over what is described as a major security breach. While Iraqi authorities confirmed clashes with unauthorized groups, they stated no remaining foreign evidence was found. Critics argue the event highlights Iraq's vulnerability and the need to reduce reliance on US security guarantees while upgrading national defense capabilities.
The New ArabShepherd's Report Exposes Secret Israeli Base in Iraq Used for Iran Strikes
Israel secretly operated a covert military base in western Iraq to support its air campaign against Iran, utilizing the site for special forces and rescue operations. The clandestine outpost functioned as a critical launchpad for missions deep inside Iranian territory, addressing concerns about stranded air crews. However, the operation was compromised in early March when a local shepherd reported suspicious low-flying helicopter activity to Iraqi authorities. As Iraqi soldiers investigated the remote desert area, they were met with heavy fire from Israeli forces, resulting in one death and two injuries. Although Iraq initially blamed the United States and filed a UN complaint, reports confirm Israel acted alone in striking the Iraqi troops to protect the base. The incident sparked diplomatic outrage in Baghdad and prompted further investigations by Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service units, who found evidence of highly trained military presence. This exposure highlights the risks of unauthorized foreign military operations within sovereign territories amid escalating Middle East conflicts.
India Today | Latest StoriesIraqi Shepherd Discovers Secret Israeli Military Base
An Iraqi shepherd has reportedly stumbled upon a clandestine Israeli military base, revealing the extent of Israel's covert operational footprint within Iraq. According to reports, this secret facility was staffed by special forces units tasked with critical search and rescue operations. The primary strategic purpose of the base was to facilitate rapid response missions in the event that Israeli fighter jets were downed over hostile territory. This discovery highlights the ongoing, albeit often unacknowledged, military tensions and covert activities between Israel and Iraq. The presence of such a base underscores the high stakes involved in regional aerial operations and the lengths to which nations go to protect their personnel and assets. The incident brings to light the complex security dynamics in the Middle East, where unofficial military engagements and secret installations play a significant role in national defense strategies. While details regarding the exact location and current status of the base remain scarce, the revelation serves as a stark reminder of the hidden layers of conflict and preparation that exist beneath the surface of regional politics.
Stuff - /Secret Israeli Base in Iraq Supported Operations Against Iran
A Wall Street Journal report reveals that Israel established a secret military base in the Iraqi desert to support air operations against Iran, linked to the initiation of Trump's Operation Epic Fury. The outpost, created with US awareness, served as a logistics hub for the Israeli Air Force and special forces, including search-and-rescue teams for downed pilots. Tensions escalated when Israeli forces launched airstrikes against Iraqi troops who approached the site in March after a local shepherd reported suspicious activity, nearly exposing the facility. The base was operational during surprise US-Israeli aerial bombardments of Iran, occurring while Tehran believed it was negotiating with Washington. Although no Israeli pilots were downed, the base supported operations when a US F-15 was shot down near Isfahan; US forces independently rescued the crew despite Israeli offers of assistance. The revelation has sparked significant outrage in Iraq, with officials condemning the unauthorized operation as reckless. This incident occurs at a sensitive political moment as Iraq prepares to appoint a new prime minister, raising concerns about sovereignty and regional stability.
ZeroHedge NewsIraqi Shepherd Exposes Israeli Secret Base; Airstrikes Repel Iraqi Army
Israel established a clandestine military base in the Iraqi desert to facilitate operations against Iran, positioning special forces and logistical support closer to the Iranian theater of war. The facility, which served as a hub for the Israeli Air Force and hosted search-and-rescue teams, was nearly compromised in early March when a local shepherd reported suspicious helicopter movements to Iraqi authorities. In response to the approaching Iraqi army units, Israeli forces conducted airstrikes on their vehicles, killing one soldier and successfully keeping them at bay. Although Iraq is theoretically allied with the United States, U.S. officials stated they were not involved in the attack, attributing the action solely to Israel. Iraq subsequently filed a complaint with the United Nations, holding the U.S. responsible for the incident. This revelation highlights the extent of Israeli covert operations within Iraqi territory amid ongoing tensions with Iran, demonstrating Israel's willingness to use lethal force to protect its secret infrastructure even against forces of a neighboring state.
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