Baghdad: Report Claims Covert Israeli Bases Supported Air Operations Near Iranian Border
Baghdad: A new report has claimed that Israel secretly operated two covert military bases inside Iraq for more than a year to support operations against Iran.
According to Beyond Time News, the report published by The New York Times stated that one of the alleged bases was located in Iraq’s western Najaf desert near the town of al-Nukhaib.
The report claimed the site helped support Israeli military activities linked to operations targeting Iran.
Secret Base Reportedly Located in Western Iraq
The alleged military outpost was reportedly built in a remote desert region to assist with air operations, aircraft refueling, and emergency medical support.
According to Beyond Time News, security officials cited in the report said the base also helped reduce flight time for Israeli aircraft operating near Iran.
The report stated that Israeli forces began preparing the makeshift facility in late 2024.
Officials reportedly said the United States had known about the base since at least June 2025.
Shepherd Allegedly Killed After Reporting Base
The report also highlighted the death of a local shepherd identified as Awad al-Shammari.
According to the claims, the 29-year-old shepherd discovered suspicious activity near the desert area and informed Iraqi authorities about the location.
The report alleged that an Israeli helicopter later opened fire on him on March 3, killing him shortly after he reported the site.
No independent confirmation regarding the allegations has been publicly released.
Iraqi Officials Reportedly Learned About Second Base
Earlier reports from The Wall Street Journal had already mentioned the existence of one Israeli outpost inside Iraq.
However, Iraqi officials quoted in the latest report claimed that a second undisclosed base was also operating in Iraq’s western desert.
According to Beyond Time News, the report raised questions about whether Iraqi authorities or the United States had prior knowledge of the operations.
The report suggested that official protocol normally requires Washington to inform Baghdad about foreign military activity inside Iraqi territory.
Some Iraqi officials reportedly questioned whether US authorities concealed the information or quietly informed senior Iraqi leadership.
Iraqi Troops Reportedly Came Under Attack
The report claimed Iraqi forces later sent a reconnaissance mission to investigate the area after receiving reports about suspicious military activity.
According to Iraq’s Joint Operations Command, the troops reportedly came under attack during the mission.
One Iraqi soldier reportedly died, while two others suffered injuries. The incident also destroyed two military vehicles before the forces withdrew from the area.
According to Beyond Time News, the report further claimed that some senior Iraqi military officials later attempted to downplay or obstruct investigations into the incident.
Read more:Israel Says Hamas Military Wing Chief Killed in Gaza
Iraq Continues Balancing Regional Relations
Iraq does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, and many Iraqis consider Israel a hostile state.
Since the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq, Baghdad has tried to maintain a careful balance between its relationship with Washington and neighboring Iran.
According to Beyond Time News, regional tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States have increased pressure on Iraq’s political and security leadership.
Security analysts believe Iraq’s geographic position makes it highly sensitive in regional conflicts involving Iran and its rivals.
Regional Tensions Continue to Rise
The report comes during a period of growing instability across the Middle East.
Analysts say allegations involving covert military bases could further increase diplomatic tensions in the region.
According to Beyond Time News, observers continue to monitor developments closely as regional powers remain involved in ongoing political and military disputes.
Experts also warn that secret military operations inside foreign territories could deepen mistrust and create additional security challenges in the Middle East.
FAQs
What did the report claim about Israel in Iraq?
The report claimed Israel secretly operated two covert military bases inside Iraq for operations linked to Iran.
Where was the alleged base located?
One reported base was allegedly located near al-Nukhaib in Iraq’s western Najaf desert.
Who was Awad al-Shammari?
Awad al-Shammari was a shepherd mentioned in the report who allegedly informed authorities about the suspected base.
Did Iraq officially confirm the bases?
No official public confirmation has been issued by Iraq regarding the existence of the alleged Israeli bases.
Why is Iraq important in regional tensions?
Iraq shares strong political and geographic connections with both the United States and Iran, making it strategically important in regional conflicts.
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