Secret Bases and Blurred Lines: Israel’s Covert Operations in Iraq

The revelation that Israel built two secret military bases in Iraq to aid its war against Iran has raised questions about the boundaries of military cooperation between nations and government accountability for clandestine operations. A New York Times report sheds light on a complex web of alliances and allegiances shrouded in secrecy.

At the center of this story is Awad al-Shammari, a 29-year-old Bedouin shepherd killed in early March after stumbling upon one of these secret bases. Iraqi officials say al-Shammari had reported unusual military activity to local authorities, but his discovery ultimately led to his death at the hands of Israeli forces. His family believes that discovering the base cost him his life, raising concerns about the consequences of these covert operations.

The presence of secret bases on Iraqi soil disregards the country’s sovereignty, as one lawmaker noted. Israel and Iraq have no diplomatic relations, making this an egregious example of a nation overstepping its bounds. The US, which has been accused of knowing about at least one base since June 2025, appears complicit in this disregard for Iraqi sovereignty.

Recent reports follow similar revelations about Israeli military bases established in other countries, including a logistical hub reportedly used by the Israeli air force. A Wall Street Journal report highlighted how Israel uses these bases to launch strikes against Iraqi forces who stumble upon them. This raises concerns not only about civilian safety but also the efficacy of such operations.

The New York Times’ report is notable for its use of sources within the Iraqi government, including an official and a lawmaker, confirming the existence of a second secret base in addition to one previously reported by the Wall Street Journal. However, the Israeli military declined to comment on both bases and al-Shammari’s killing.

Misinformation and misleading photos created using AI-generated imagery have circulated online, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in verifying information where fake news can spread quickly.

What is striking about this report is not just the existence of these secret bases but also the willingness of governments to ignore or downplay their involvement. The US knowing about at least one base and remaining silent raises questions about its commitment to transparency and accountability.

This story serves as a reminder that even in complex military alliances, there are consequences for government actions. As we navigate the shifting landscape of global politics, it is essential to hold leaders accountable for their actions, particularly when covert operations put civilians at risk.

The secrecy surrounding this story raises important questions about the role of media in exposing such operations. The New York Times’ report demonstrates the importance of investigative journalism in shedding light on issues that might otherwise remain hidden. It will be crucial for journalists and policymakers to prioritize transparency and accountability in military operations, lest we forget the human cost.

The killing of Awad al-Shammari serves as a stark reminder that even clandestine operations can have devastating consequences for innocent civilians. It is our collective responsibility to ensure such tragedies are not repeated in the future.