Israel built and defended a secret military base in Iraq as part of preparations for a potential war with Iran, according to a Wall Street Journal report cited by Reuters.

The facility represents a significant development in regional military positioning, with Israel establishing operations in Iraqi territory. Details about the base's specific location, size, and operational timeline were not immediately available from the initial reporting.

The reported base appears to be part of Israel's broader strategic preparations regarding Iran, reflecting ongoing tensions between the two nations. Israel has previously conducted military operations across the region as part of what it describes as efforts to counter Iranian influence.

Neither Israeli nor Iraqi officials immediately responded to requests for comment about the reported facility. The Wall Street Journal's original reporting provided the basis for the Reuters coverage of the story.

The development, if confirmed, would mark a notable expansion of Israeli military presence in the region and could have implications for broader Middle Eastern security dynamics.