Israel established a clandestine military base in western Iraq before February 2026 to support its air campaign against Iran. The base housed special forces and search-and-rescue teams, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing U.S. officials.
The base served as a logistical hub for the Israeli Air Force, allowing rapid refuelling and extended operations over Iranian targets. In addition, Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar, chief of the Israeli Air Force, said elite units, likely including Unit 669, deployed to recover downed pilots and carry out “extraordinary missions.”
In early March, Iraqi forces approached the site after a shepherd reported unusual activity. Israeli airstrikes killed one Iraqi soldier and deterred further investigation. Baghdad initially blamed the U.S., though it did not participate, highlighting Israel’s independent operational approach.
Experts say the remote desert location offered strategic concealment, enabling sustained operations against Iranian nuclear and military targets. This also helped minimise detection. Moreover, analysts view the base as a model of multi-domain modern warfare. It combines aerial, special operations, and rapid-response capabilities without formal regional support.
The revelation underscores the operational lengths Israel pursued during the five-week 2025–2026 Iran conflict. It also raises diplomatic sensitivities regarding Iraqi sovereignty.
