Israeli Forces Established Temporary Outpost in Iraqi Desert During Iran Conflict

During the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, Israeli forces established a temporary outpost in Iraq's Nukhaib desert, according to Iraqi and U.S. officials. The facility, described as a logistical hub for Israeli special forces and air operations, was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.

The presence of this unauthorized military force in early March prompted Iraqi army units to investigate. En route to the location, these units came under aerial attack, resulting in one fatality and two injuries among Iraqi soldiers. Iraqi officials confirmed the short-term presence of a foreign force but did not specify its origin. However, two Iraqi security and intelligence officials, along with a senior U.S. military official, identified the force as Israeli.

A U.S. official characterized the site as a "temporary staging area or camp to support operations in Iran," rather than a permanent base. An Iraqi intelligence official noted that the Israeli force had set up tents with the objective of monitoring rocket launches and drone activity by certain Iraqi militias. The force is believed to have arrived via an airdrop operation, though the exact timing remains unclear.

The outpost's existence was brought to light by a local shepherd who reported unusual activity to authorities. Subsequent satellite imagery from March 8 revealed a 1.5-kilometer track in the area, potentially suitable for aircraft operations. The nearest town, al-Nukhaib, is approximately 45 kilometers northwest of the site.

The Iraqi government has called for the country to remain uninvolved in the regional conflict, expressing concern over foreign military operations within its borders. Both Israeli military and U.S. defense officials declined to comment on the matter.