Israel reportedly built a covert military base in the Iraqi desert to support air operations against Iran, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. The facility, established shortly before the outbreak of hostilities and with the prior knowledge of the United States, served as a hub for special forces and logistical support, including search and rescue teams in case Israeli pilots were downed. No Israeli pilots were reported lost during the campaign.

The base was nearly discovered in early March after a local shepherd reported unusual helicopter activity, prompting Iraqi forces to investigate. In response, Israel carried out airstrikes to prevent Iraqi troops from reaching the site, an incident that led to the death of an Iraqi soldier and condemnation from Baghdad, which described the action as uncoordinated and unauthorized.

Iraq later filed a complaint with the United Nations alleging foreign involvement in the strikes, initially blaming the United States, though a source denied Washington's role. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions between Washington and Tehran continue, with mediated talks in Islamabad seeking to establish a framework for further negotiations following a temporary ceasefire.