Israel Established Secret Military Bases in Iraqi Desert

The Cabinet of Israel established clandestine military facilities in the Iraqi desert, specifically in the Al-Nukhayb and Najaf regions, to support an air campaign against Iran. These sites, which included an abandoned airstrip and makeshift landing tracks, served as logistical hubs, refueling stations, and search-and-rescue bases. Reports indicate some installations were developed as early as late 2024 and used during a June 2025 conflict before the current Operation Epic Fury began on February 28, 2026.

In early March, a local shepherd reported suspicious military activity, prompting Iraqi security forces to investigate. During the mission, Iraqi troops came under heavy aerial fire from the outpost's defenders, resulting in the death of one soldier and injuries to two others. While Baghdad initially suspected the United States, officials later concluded the forces were Israeli after U.S. denials. Satellite imagery from March 8 corroborated the presence of a man-made track suitable for warplanes, though Iraqi army officials later claimed the force was a temporary staging area present for no more than 48 hours.

The Federal government of the United States reportedly had full knowledge of the bases since June 2025 but did not notify the Iraqi government. In response, the Iraqi parliament summoned security ministers for questioning, and the government filed formal grievances with the United Nations Security Council, condemning the operation as a violation of national sovereignty. The Popular Mobilization Forces subsequently launched operations to secure the desert regions of Najaf and Karbala.