US embassy in Baghdad warns of attacks in city over next 24-48 hours

• The US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible "Iran-aligned militia" attacks in central Baghdad within 24–48 hours.

The United States Embassy in Baghdad has issued an urgent security alert warning that "Iran-aligned Iraqi militia" groups may be planning attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24 to 48 hours.

In a statement released Thursday, the embassy said intelligence indicates that "Iraqi terrorist militias allied with Iran" could target areas in the Iraqi capital, raising concerns about the safety of American citizens and facilities across the country.

The warning stated that Iran and affiliated militant groups have previously carried out “widespread attacks” against U.S. citizens and U.S.-linked targets throughout Iraq, including in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

According to the embassy, potential targets could include American citizens as well as companies, universities, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, and airports believed to have connections to the United States. Iraqi institutions and civilian locations may also be at risk.

The statement further warned that militia groups have previously targeted Americans for kidnapping operations, prompting U.S. authorities to urge citizens to leave Iraq immediately.

“The Government of Iraq has been unable to prevent terrorist attacks occurring within Iraqi territory or those launched from it,” the alert said, adding that some militia groups may have ties to the Iraqi government and that certain militants could carry identification indicating they are government employees.

Despite the elevated threat level and the departure of some personnel under a mandatory evacuation order, the U.S. Mission Iraq said it continues to operate to assist American citizens remaining in the country.

However, the embassy advised U.S. nationals not to attempt to travel to the diplomatic compound in Baghdad or to the U.S. Consulate General Erbil due to ongoing security risks, including rockets, drones, and artillery fire in Iraqi airspace.

The embassy also reiterated the U.S. government’s Level 4 travel advisory for Iraq, the highest warning level, urging Americans not to travel to the country under any circumstances.

“Do not travel to Iraq for any reason,” the embassy said. “If you are there, leave immediately.”