U.S. Embassy in Baghdad Warns of Possible Imminent Attacks; Urges Americans to Leave Iraq

BAGHDAD, Apr 2: The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad has issued a heightened security alert warning that Iran-aligned Iraqi militant groups may be planning attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24 to 48 hours.

According to the advisory, the groups have previously conducted widespread attacks targeting U.S. citizens and U.S.-linked interests across Iraq, including in the Kurdistan region. Potential targets could include diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, universities, companies, and other locations associated with the United States, as well as Iraqi institutions and civilians.

The alert also warns that U.S. nationals have previously been targeted for kidnapping and strongly advises American citizens to leave Iraq immediately.

The advisory states that militant groups may be operating with links to Iraqi institutions and could include individuals carrying official government-issued identification. It further notes that the Iraqi government has been unable to fully prevent such attacks.

The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad said its mission continues to operate despite the ordered departure of some personnel, but urged the public not to approach its facilities in Baghdad or the consulate in Erbil due to ongoing risks including rockets, drones, and mortars.

Reiterating the U.S. State Department’s highest travel warning, the embassy reminded citizens that Iraq remains under a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory, stressing: “Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Leave immediately if you are there.”