New US security alert in Iraq: Citizens must remain and the consulate is closed.
New US security alert in Iraq: Citizens must remain and the consulate is closed.
2026-03-02 03:48
Shafaq News – Baghdad
The United States announced on Monday the suspension of consular services in Iraq and urged its citizens to stay put, citing what it called “Iranian-backed militias” as a major threat to public safety.
The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert on Monday urging American citizens in Iraq to exercise increased caution, maintain a low profile, and remain where they are until further notice, given the ongoing security unrest.
The embassy stated that the demonstrations could turn violent without warning, noting that “Iranian-backed terrorist militias pose a major threat to public safety,” with reports continuing of missiles, drones, and shells in Iraqi airspace.
She explained that riots and protests against the United States were ongoing, particularly on the south bank of the July 14 Bridge in Baghdad, and that these disturbances had turned violent, with calls for further demonstrations across the country. She urged American citizens to avoid the area surrounding the bridge, noting that Iraqi authorities had closed the International Zone in central Baghdad with limited exceptions.
The mission also stressed not to attempt to go to the US Embassy in Baghdad or the Consulate General in Erbil due to the tightened security measures.
She noted that she had instructed all her staff to remain in their posts as of March 2, while suspending consular operations, including routine services for American citizens, for the time being.
The U.S. State Department renewed its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” travel warning for Iraq, urging its citizens not to travel for any reason, to review their personal security plans, and to consider leaving Iraq when conditions become safe, while emphasizing that they should not rely on the U.S. government for assistance with departure or evacuation.
She added that Iraqi airspace is currently closed, and the authorities may close or reopen the airspace at any time without prior notice, urging people to contact airlines for the latest information on flights.
The embassy also urged its citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), prepare an emergency plan, stock up on food, water and medicine, keep their phones charged and stay in touch with family, avoid gatherings and crowds, follow local media, be prepared to modify plans when needed, avoid areas frequented by foreigners, and remain alert for anything unusual.
Last Saturday, as military operations against Iran began, the US Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert warning of a possible deterioration in the situation in Iraq, urging American citizens to reduce their movements and stay put when necessary, while temporarily suspending consular services.
shafaq.com
