Reports alleging that Israel operated a covert military base inside Iraq during the recent conflict with Iran have triggered political debate and questions over Iraqi sovereignty. According to reports the alleged base was established in Iraq’s western desert shortly before Israeli and US strikes against Iran earlier this year.
The reports claimed the outpost was used to support Israeli air operations, including logistics, surveillance and possible search-and-rescue missions in the event Israeli aircraft were downed. Iraqi officials, however, strongly denied the allegations, calling the reports false and insisting no such installation existed on Iraqi territory.
The controversy comes amid heightened regional tensions following months of confrontation involving Iran, Israel and several Gulf states. Analysts say the allegations could place additional pressure on the Iraqi government, which has tried to balance ties between Tehran and Washington while maintaining domestic stability. No independent evidence confirming the existence of the alleged base has been publicly released. Israel has not officially commented on the reports.
