Shafaq News- Baghdad

The US Embassy in Baghdad issued an ‘’urgent warning’’ on Thursday that Iran-aligned armed groups could launch attacks in central Baghdad within 24 to 48 hours, urging American citizens to leave Iraq immediately.

In a security alert posted on X, the Embassy warned of potential threats to US nationals and American-linked interests across Iraq, including businesses, universities, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, and airports, citing a pattern of past incidents in which Americans were targeted in kidnapping attempts.

Indicating that Iraqi authorities have not succeeded in preventing attacks carried out inside the country or launched from its territory, it pointed that some individuals involved may carry identification presenting them as government employees.

Despite ordering some staff to leave, the US mission continues to operate and provide support to American citizens. It also cautioned against approaching its compound in Baghdad or the consulate in Erbil due to ongoing risks, including rockets, drones, and indirect fire.

Reinforcing its previous Level 4 — Do Not Travel advisory, the embassy urged US citizens to avoid travel to Iraq entirely and to leave immediately if already in the country.