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3. WSJ: Israel Allegedly Built Secret Base in Iraq Ahead of Iran Conflict

Israel allegedly established a covert military outpost deep inside Iraq’s western desert ahead of its recent confrontation with Iran, using the facility to support air operations and special missions, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal citing U.S. officials and regional sources.

The report claims the secret base was constructed with the knowledge of the United States shortly before the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Iran at the end of February. Located in a remote desert area, the installation reportedly served as a logistical and operational hub for the Israeli Air Force during its campaign against Iranian targets.

According to the sources cited, the outpost housed Israeli special forces units and search-and-rescue teams tasked with recovering pilots in the event Israeli aircraft were shot down over hostile territory. The base was also allegedly equipped to support commando-style operations behind enemy lines.

The report further alleges that tensions escalated after an American F-15 fighter jet was downed during the conflict. Israel reportedly offered operational assistance to U.S. forces involved in the rescue mission and carried out airstrikes intended to secure the area and protect the American operation.

The existence of the base allegedly came close to exposure in early March, when Iraqi state media reported unusual military activity in the western desert region. A local shepherd reportedly observed repeated helicopter movements and suspicious ground operations, prompting Iraqi authorities to dispatch military units to investigate.

Qais Al-Muhammadawi, deputy commander of Iraq’s Joint Operations Command, later acknowledged that Iraqi forces encountered evidence suggesting the presence of a highly capable foreign military force operating on the ground.