Jerusalem, May 10, 2026

A new report has claimed that Israel secretly established a covert military base in western Iraq to support air operations linked to its conflict with Iran. The development highlights the growing shadow warfare and regional tensions in the Middle East, where military strategies are increasingly extending beyond direct borders and into covert cross-border operations.

According to reports cited by *The Wall Street Journal*, the alleged base was created shortly before the recent escalation between Israel and Iran and was reportedly used for logistics, refuelling support, special forces activity, and possible rescue missions for Israeli pilots. The report further claimed that Iraqi troops who approached the area during an investigation were targeted in airstrikes aimed at protecting the secrecy of the operation. Reuters, however, stated that it could not independently verify these claims.

An Iraqi security official denied the existence of any Israeli military base inside Iraq, while there has been no official confirmation from either Israel or the United States regarding the allegations. The reports are largely based on unnamed officials and intelligence-related sources, making the issue highly sensitive and difficult to independently confirm.

The claims have added another layer to the already volatile situation in the region, reflecting how the Israel-Iran conflict is increasingly involving covert operations, intelligence networks, and strategic military positioning across neighbouring countries.