The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad on Friday warned that Iran and allied militia groups pose a serious threat to public safety in Iraq and said many Americans should consider leaving the country as soon as it can be done safely.
In a security alert dated March 13, the embassy said attacks targeting U.S. citizens, U.S. interests and critical infrastructure have been observed. According to U.S. Embassy Baghdad, Iran-aligned militias have also targeted U.S. companies, energy infrastructure operated by the United States, hotels frequented by foreigners and other facilities linked to the United States, including in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region.
The embassy said U.S. citizens also face a risk of kidnapping. It urged Americans to remain vigilant, keep a low profile and avoid places associated with the United States or gatherings of U.S. citizens that could make them potential targets.
The alert said the U.S. government is prepared to assist Americans who wish to leave by providing updated information on available departure options. It also urged all U.S. citizens in Iraq to review their personal security situations immediately.
For Americans who choose to remain, the embassy said they should be prepared to shelter in place for extended periods and keep food, water, medications and other essential supplies on hand.
The warning comes as Iraq’s airspace remains closed and commercial flights are not operating. The embassy said land routes to Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Turkey remain open, though long delays should be expected. Local ground transportation remains operational, it said.
The alert also outlined conditions in neighboring countries. In Jordan, commercial flights are operating from Queen Alia International Airport, though disruptions may occur, and U.S. citizens crossing by land from Iraq must obtain a visa in advance because visas on arrival are not available at that border.
In Kuwait, commercial flights are not operating because of what the embassy described as an ongoing threat of missile and drone attacks. The alert said land routes to Saudi Arabia remain open, though borders may close or reopen without notice, and added that U.S. citizens may obtain a visa on arrival in Kuwait if their passports are valid for at least six months.
The embassy said conditions may change quickly, including possible airspace closures in neighboring countries, and noted that local entry and exit requirements remain in effect.
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