According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Israel has constructed a covert military base in the Iraqi desert to support its air operations targeting Iran. The base was reportedly established in February, shortly before the commencement of U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.
The facility is described as a logistical hub for the Israeli Air Force, housing special forces units and search-and-rescue teams prepared to respond in the event of downed Israeli pilots. The report indicates that Israeli forces conducted airstrikes against Iraqi troops to protect the base from potential discovery.
Following these strikes, one Iraqi soldier was reported killed, prompting the Iraqi government to express outrage over what they termed an uncoordinated and unauthorized operation. Initially, Iraq had accused the United States of involvement in the March attack, but U.S. officials have denied any participation.
A senior Iraqi military representative suggested that a force operating on the ground, supported by air assets, executed the strikes, indicating capabilities beyond those of Iraqi units. This assertion aligns with comments made by Israel’s Air Force Commander Major General Tomer Bar, who noted that special forces were engaged in ‘extraordinary’ operations during the conflict with Iran.
Michael Knights, a security expert from Horizon Engage, remarked on the strategic advantages of the Iraqi desert for establishing a clandestine military outpost, citing its low population density and vast expanse. He emphasized that reconnaissance and the establishment of such facilities are standard procedures prior to military operations.
The geopolitical context of Iraq, situated between Jordan and Iran, has made it a focal point of conflict, with both U.S. and Iranian interests vying for influence. The United States has long pressured Baghdad to disarm powerful Iranian-backed militias, which it designates as terrorist organizations, due to their significant presence in Iraq.
These militias have previously targeted American facilities in Iraq, including the U.S. embassy in Baghdad and oil fields operated by foreign companies. In response, U.S. forces have conducted numerous strikes against militia positions, resulting in substantial casualties among their ranks.
On February 28, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the initiation of military operations against Iran, following reports of coordinated strikes between U.S. and Israeli forces. On May 1, Iran conveyed updated proposals for a peace agreement through intermediaries to the United States, while the White House informed Congress that combat operations against Iran had concluded, despite the continued presence of U.S. military forces in the region.
Subsequent to these developments, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Miami to discuss Iran’s anticipated response regarding further negotiations.
Israel has established a secret military base in the Iraqi desert to support air operations against Iran. The base serves as a logistical hub for special forces and has been involved in recent military actions, raising tensions in the region.
Source: Wall Street Journal