Baghdad –INA
The Joint Operations Command-JOC denied on Monday the presence of any unauthorized bases or forces on Iraqi territory, particularly in Karbala desert east of Al-Nukhaib and Najaf.
In a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), JOC said it was “closely following statements and reports regarding the presence of unauthorized bases and forces on Iraqi territory, specifically in the Karbala desert east of Al-Nukhaib and Najaf.”
It added that it had previously clarified that the matter relates to an incident that occurred on March 5, 2026, when an Iraqi security force from the Karbala Operations Command and another from Najaf moved into the area and clashed with unidentified unauthorized detachments supported by aircraft at the time. The incident resulted in the martyrdom of one Iraqi security force member, the injury of two others, and damage to a vehicle.
The statement said Iraqi security forces showed determination to reach the area and its surroundings and continued pressure and deployment there, forcing the unauthorized detachments to withdraw while benefiting from air cover.
It noted that Iraqi security units and various commands, under the direction and planning of the Joint Operations Command, continue to conduct periodic inspections across all sectors, particularly desert areas extending to the international borders with neighboring countries.
The command said reports approved by all security commanders confirmed that no unauthorized bases or forces had been present since the date of the incident until today.
It added that “some parties are attempting to politically exploit this incident, while others are making statements without knowing the facts,” stressing that such remarks harm Iraq’s reputation and its security leadership, which “confirms and categorically asserts that there are currently no unauthorized forces or bases on Iraqi territory.”
The statement further stressed that Iraqi security forces continue extensive inspection operations across all areas of responsibility.
The Joint Operations Command affirmed that legal measures would be taken against anyone attempting to spread misleading information or malicious rumors that send negative messages about Iraq’s sovereignty, prestige, and the sacrifices of its security institutions.
