In a revelation that has stirred regional tensions, two Israeli intelligence outposts were secretly established in Iraq's western desert, near the town of al-Nukhaib, according to reports from March 2026. The bases, hidden for months, were used for surveillance and potential operations against Iranian targets, sources familiar with the matter told news agencies.
The outposts were discovered after a truck carrying supplies was attacked by local militias on March 3, 2026, leading to a firefight. The incident drew attention to the presence of Israeli personnel in the area, which had been operating under the guise of a local shepherd's routine. The bases are believed to have been operational since late 2025.
Iraqi officials have denied knowledge of the bases, while Israeli authorities have not commented on the reports. The revelation has sparked debate in Baghdad about sovereignty and the presence of foreign forces, with some lawmakers calling for an investigation.
The outposts highlight the shadow war between Israel and Iran, which has intensified in recent years. Iran has accused Israel of conducting sabotage and assassination operations on its soil, while Israel has targeted Iranian-linked forces in Syria and Iraq.
