Israel built secret base in Iraq to support air campaign against Iran: Report

A report by The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the matter including US officials, has revealed a clandestine Israeli military outpost operating within the Iraqi desert. This secret facility was allegedly established to bolster Israel's air campaign against Iran and functioned as a critical logistical hub for Israeli special forces and air operations targeting Iranian territory. The revelation sheds light on the shadowy, undeclared conflicts simmering in the region, extending far beyond the public eye.

The report details how the base was constructed shortly before the current hostilities, with the knowledge of the United States. It housed Israeli special forces and was equipped with search-and-rescue teams, prepared to assist downed Israeli pilots during missions over Iran. While no Israeli pilots were reportedly lost during these operations, the existence of such a base underscores the complex and often covert nature of regional security dynamics.

Adding a layer of tension, the report indicates that Iraqi troops were dispatched to investigate unusual military activity near the site after being alerted by a local shepherd. According to sources, Israel launched airstrikes to prevent Iraqi forces from reaching the installation, an action that drew condemnation from the Iraqi government, with reports of one Iraqi soldier killed. This incident highlights the extreme measures taken to maintain operational secrecy and the potential for miscalculation and unintended consequences in these covert operations.

From an Iraqi perspective, this report raises serious questions about sovereignty and the extent to which foreign powers operate within its borders without full transparency. While the report suggests US knowledge, the Iraqi government's condemnation of the strike and its subsequent complaint to the United Nations indicate a strong objection to such incursions. The incident underscores the delicate balance Iraq must maintain amidst regional rivalries, often finding itself caught in the crossfire of larger geopolitical games. The lack of transparency surrounding such operations makes it difficult for the Iraqi public to fully grasp the security landscape and the implications for national interests.

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This reckless operation was carried out without coordination or approval.