Regional security sources told The New York Times that the base had existed before the current war between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, and was used during the 12‑day conflict in June 2025.

Israeli forces reportedly began preparations for the site in late 2024, selecting remote desert locations for future operations. The base served as a hub for air support, refueling, and medical treatment, designed to shorten flight distances to Iran and proved highly effective during the June war.

Two Iraqi security officials said Washington forced Baghdad to shut down radar systems during the conflict to protect U.S. aircraft, increasing Iraq’s reliance on American surveillance.

However, Iraqi security spokesman Maj. Gen. Saad Maan told The New York Times that Iraq had “no information about any Israeli military bases.”

Earlier, on May 12, Karbala Operations Commander Lt. Gen. Ali al‑Hashimi revealed that the force conducting the Najaf landing was Israeli, using U.S. weapons. Iraqi troops arrived within 48 hours but found no trace of a permanent base.

The Iraqi government confirmed clashes with unidentified forces in March, forcing their withdrawal under air cover, and reiterated that no foreign bases currently exist on Iraqi soil.

In response, Iraqi forces and the Popular Mobilization Units launched Operation “Impose Sovereignty” across the deserts of Najaf and Karbala, aiming to secure routes between Karbala and al‑Nukhayb. The operation was supervised by Chief of Staff Gen. Abdul Amir Yarallah.

The Joint Operations Command later stated that Iraqi units continue to patrol and inspect all desert areas, finding no unauthorized military presence in recent months.