Baghdad, Iraq – In a serious escalation of violence reflecting the deteriorating security situation, the U.S. Embassy in Iraq announced on Thursday that American citizens and U.S. facilities had been targeted in widespread attacks. These attacks were carried out by Iranian-backed armed groups across the country, including in key areas within the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
Warning of “serious risks” and a demand for immediate evacuation
The embassy confirmed in an official press release that “Iranian-backed terrorist militias” have intensified their hostile operations to an unprecedented degree, targeting the American presence in all its forms. In light of these developments, the embassy issued a strongly worded warning to American citizens in Iraq, urging them to “leave immediately” via available air and land routes, emphasizing that remaining in the country now exposes them to grave dangers. It further stressed that these dangers could be fatal.
Hijacking and air threat
The statement revealed a dark aspect of these groups’ strategy, warning of attempts by these militias to kidnap American citizens. The embassy also advised all citizens to avoid the embassy compound in Baghdad and the consulate general in Erbil due to the ongoing dangers posed by rocket and drone attacks that now plague Iraqi airspace. Diplomatic missions have thus become potential targets, and their surrounding areas are unsafe.
Business continuity despite crises
Despite issuing official orders for its non-essential staff to leave, the US diplomatic mission clarified that its offices continue to provide limited and necessary consular services to assist American citizens stranded in Iraq. However, it emphasized that these operations are being conducted under extremely complex and sensitive security conditions.
