Israel built a secret base in the Iraqi desert to support strikes on Iran

Darwin, 10 May : Israel had established a secret military base in the western desert region of Iraq to support air operations against Iran, according to a report published by the American newspaper The Wall Street Journal.

According to the report, the base was built shortly before the start of a joint US-Israel operation in February. It was primarily used as a logistical support hub for the Israeli Air Force. Special forces members and search-and-rescue teams were also deployed there to enable quick recovery operations in case any Israeli warplanes were shot down.

The report also claims that in early March, Israeli forces carried out airstrikes on Iraqi troops in order to keep the base’s location secret, as Iraqi forces were reportedly close to discovering it.

At the time, Baghdad stated that one Iraqi soldier was killed in the attack. Local media reported that a shepherd witnessed unusual military activity in a remote area, including helicopter movements and gunfire. Iraqi forces later launched an operation to secure the area.

However, according to the Wall Street Journal, the Iraqi forces did not pursue the investigation further after the Israeli strikes. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) declined to comment on the matter.

Iraq initially blamed the United States for the attack, saying that the operation had been carried out without any coordination or authorization. However, US sources stated that Washington was not directly involved.

A senior Iraqi military official said at the time, “It appears that a force was stationed there before the attack, receiving aerial support and operating beyond the capabilities of our units.”

The report also references a statement made in March by then-Israeli Air Force Chief Tomer Bar. He said that during the conflict with Iran, special forces had conducted “extraordinary” operations.

He stated, “Members of the Air Force’s special units are currently carrying out extraordinary missions that can challenge the imagination.” However, he did not provide further details.

Security analysts believe that the vast and sparsely populated western Iraqi desert is suitable for establishing secret military bases. Michael Knights, head of the security research organization Horizon Engage, said, “It is normal to select and prepare such positions in advance of operations.”

Iraq, located strategically between Jordan and Iran, has long tried to maintain a balance between Washington and Tehran. However, during the Iran-related conflict, the country became a focal point due to attacks from both sides.

The United States has long urged Baghdad to disarm Iran-backed armed groups, which Washington says have significant influence in Iraq.

During the conflict, these groups carried out attacks on the US embassy in Baghdad, diplomatic and logistical facilities at the capital’s airport, and oil fields operated by foreign companies. In response, US forces conducted retaliatory strikes on their positions and bases.