Israel Allegedly Builds Secret Military Base in Iraqi Desert
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal on May 10, 2026, Israel is allegedly constructing a secret military base in the Iraqi desert region to support strike operations against Iran. This facility was established before the conflict with the knowledge of the United States, but without the awareness or approval of the Iraqi government, and functions as a logistics hub as well as a base for search and rescue teams.
In early March, Iraqi state media reported suspicious activity in the area, prompting Iraqi forces to move in for investigation. Before Iraqi troops could reach the location, Israel launched an airstrike that killed an Iraqi soldier. Deputy Commander of the Iraqi Joint Operations Command, Qais Al-Muhammadawi, criticized the operation as "reckless" and uncoordinated. The Israeli military declined to comment.
Regional tensions have escalated since February 28, triggering retaliatory strikes from Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz before a ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation. US President Donald Trump subsequently announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire, indicating the situation remains fragile.
https://www.gelora.co/2026/05/