'Israel' built and defended a secret base in Iraq for Iran war, WSJ reports

• Report says 'Israel' operated a covert military base in Iraq to support strikes on Iran.
• The alleged outpost was nearly exposed after Iraqi troops investigated unusual activity.

'Israel' established a secret military outpost deep in Iraq’s western desert to support its air campaign against Iran, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal that cited people familiar with the matter, including U.S. officials.

The report, published Saturday, said the installation was built shortly before the start of the U.S.-'Israeli' war against Iran and operated with Washington’s knowledge.

According to the newspaper, the clandestine site housed 'Israeli' special forces and served as a logistical center for the air force during operations targeting Iran.

The base reportedly also included search-and-rescue teams tasked with assisting downed pilots if aircraft were hit during missions.

The report said the facility played a key role in sustaining 'Israeli' air operations by providing forward support closer to Iranian territory.

The outpost was allegedly almost uncovered in early March after Iraqi state media reported that a local shepherd had observed unusual military activity, including helicopter movements, in the remote desert area.

Iraqi troops were then dispatched to investigate the site.

According to the Journal, 'Israeli' forces launched airstrikes against the approaching Iraqi units to keep them at a distance and prevent the operation from being exposed.

The newspaper cited a complaint submitted by Iraq to the United Nations later in March, in which Baghdad said foreign forces carried out airstrikes in the area and attributed the attack to the United States.

However, the report quoted a source familiar with the matter as saying U.S. forces were not directly involved in the strike.