US embassy warns citizens in Iraq after 'attacks' by Iran-backed groups

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BAGHDAD: The United States Embassy has issued a critical security alert for Iraq after multiple drone strikes by Iran-aligned militia groups targeted the vicinity of the Baghdad Diplomatic Support Centre and Baghdad International Airport on Wednesday. 

Despite the recent announcement of a fragile two-week ceasefire in the region, the embassy warned that these groups may be planning additional attacks against American citizens and interests throughout the country.

The security alert identified a wide range of potential targets including diplomatic facilities, businesses, universities, and energy infrastructure, while also highlighting a persistent risk of kidnappings where attackers may attempt to pose as Iraqi government officials. Although Iraqi authorities have announced plans to reopen airspace and resume commercial flights, the embassy has advised US citizens against all domestic air travel due to the ongoing risk of missiles and drones.

Americans currently in Iraq are being directed to leave the country immediately via available overland routes to Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, with the embassy noting that travellers should expect significant delays and must coordinate their own ground transportation. 

Routine consular services remain suspended, and citizens have been told to avoid approaching the Embassy in Baghdad or the Consulate General in Erbil, handling all emergency requests exclusively via email.

This heightened alert follows nearly six weeks of intense regional conflict that has frequently turned Iraq into a primary battleground for proxy engagements. While the US and Iran agreed to a temporary truce earlier this week, the embassy emphasised that the security environment remains ‘very fluid,’ and those choosing to remain in Iraq do so at substantial personal risk.