---
title: 'Israel Operated Two Covert Bases in Iraq for Operations Against Iran: Report'
url: 'https://thediplomaticinsight.com/israel-operated-two-covert-bases-in-iraq-for-operations-against-iran/'
author: 'News Desk'
date: '2026-05-18T19:46:23+05:00'
categories:
  - 'Middle East'
  - 'World'
tags:
  - 'Iraq Iran'
  - 'Israel'
  - 'military'
---

# Israel Operated Two Covert Bases in Iraq for Operations Against Iran: Report

**Baghdad (TDI):** Israel established two secret military facilities in Iraq’s western desert that were allegedly used to support operations targeting Iran, according to New York Times.

The report, which cited Iraqi and regional officials, said that the covert sites had been operating intermittently for over a year and were used for logistical purposes including refuelling, air support, and emergency medical assistance. The facilities were also allegedly utilized during the 12-day conflict involving Iran in June 2025.

One of the sites reportedly came under scrutiny after a local shepherd, Awad al-Shammari, noticed suspicious military movements near the al-Nukhaib desert area in March. The report said he informed Iraqi authorities after spotting helicopters, temporary camps, and what appeared to be an improvised landing strip.

The New York Times further claimed that al-Shammari later went missing and was eventually found dead. Iraqi security personnel sent to inspect the area also reportedly faced armed fire, leaving one soldier dead and two others injured.

Earlier this month, the Wall Street Journal had also reported the existence of a secret Israeli facility in Iraq allegedly linked to operations against Iran.

**Read More: [Pakistan Calls for End to Israeli Occupation on Nakba Day](https://thediplomaticinsight.com/pakistan-calls-end-israeli-occupation-nakba-day/)**

However, Iraqi officials have strongly denied the claims. Speaking after the Wall Street Journal report, a senior Iraqi security official described reports of Israeli military activity inside Iraq as inaccurate. The official acknowledged that Iraqi forces had dealt with a “mysterious” airborne incident in the al-Nukhaib region in March, but insisted the matter had already been contained.

Meanwhile, Iraq reiterated that it would not allow its territory to be used for attacks against neighboring countries. Military spokesperson Sabah al-Numan said Baghdad’s policy is focused on staying out of regional conflicts in order to maintain internal stability.

**Read More: [Israel and Lebanon Extend Ceasefire By 45 Days](https://thediplomaticinsight.com/israel-and-lebanon-extend-ceasefire-by-45-days/)**

Speaking to Iraqi state media, al-Numan stressed that limiting weapons to state control remains a central part of the government’s security policy and is necessary to end unauthorized armed activity. He also said Iraq rejects foreign interference and wants to shield itself from the political and security consequences of ongoing regional tensions.

The remarks came days after Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi pledged to bring all weapons under state authority as part of a broader national reform agenda following his government’s approval in parliament.