The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad has issued a security warning, stating that Iranian-aligned Iraqi militias may attack central Baghdad in the next 24 to 48 hours. These groups have previously targeted American citizens and facilities across Iraq, including the Kurdistan region.
Potential targets include American citizens, diplomatic sites, businesses, universities, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, Iraqi government buildings, and civilian areas. The embassy also warns that militia members might try to kidnap people or pose as officials using fake identification.
U.S. officials are urging all American citizens in Iraq to leave immediately due to a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory. Iraqi airspace is closed, so the only way out is by land through countries like Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, or Turkey. However, delays at border crossings are expected.
Iran-aligned militias, such as Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat al Nujaba, operate under the Popular Mobilisation Forces umbrella. These groups have previously attacked U.S. forces with rockets, drones, and roadside bombs during times of high tension in West Asia.