02 April,2026 03:27 PM IST | Baghdad (Iraq) | mid-day online correspondent
Smoke billows from an oil warehouse in the Kani Qirzhala area on the outskirts of Erbil. File Pic/AFP
The US Embassy in Baghdad has issued an urgent security alert warning that Iran-aligned militia groups may be planning attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24 to 48 hours.
In a post on X, the embassy cautioned that such groups could carry out attacks targeting locations associated with the United States. The advisory raised concerns over the safety of American citizens and assets in Iraq.
According to the alert, Iran and Iran-aligned militias have previously carried out widespread attacks against US-linked targets across Iraq, including in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.
The embassy stated that possible targets may include US citizens, businesses, universities, diplomatic premises, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, and other locations perceived to have links with the United States, reported the PTI.
It also highlighted the risk of kidnappings, noting that such groups have previously targeted Americans for abduction.
The embassy warned that the Iraqi government has not been able to fully prevent attacks originating within its territory. It added that some militia members may pose as government personnel and carry identification suggesting official status.
Despite the heightened threat, the embassy continues to operate under an ordered departure status to assist US nationals, though it has strongly advised against visiting diplomatic facilities in Baghdad or the consulate in Erbil, the news agency reported.
According to the ANI, the US Department of State has reiterated its Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Iraq, urging American citizens to leave the country immediately if present.
The advisory stressed that those choosing to remain in Iraq do so at significant personal risk.
Officials confirmed that Iraqi airspace is currently closed, with commercial flights suspended. However, overland routes to neighbouring countries such as Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye remain open, though travellers should expect delays, as per the ANI.
Local ground transport services are still functioning, and US citizens have been urged to depart via available land routes.
The warning comes amid reports of the abduction of Shelly Kittleson in Baghdad. The US Department of State confirmed it is investigating the case and coordinating with the FBI, the ANI reported.
Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said the individual had previously been warned about potential security risks in the region.
(with ANI inputs)
