In a post on X, the embassy said such groups 'may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours', raising concerns over the safety of US citizens and installations in Iraq.
Key Points
- US Embassy warns of possible militia attacks in Baghdad within 24-48 hours.
- Iran-aligned groups may target US citizens, infrastructure, and institutions.
- Kidnapping risk flagged; militias may pose as government personnel.
- Level 4 advisory in place; Americans urged to leave via overland routes.
- US investigating reported abduction of journalist Shelly Kittleson.
The US Embassy in Baghdad has issued an urgent security alert, warning that Iran-aligned 'terrorist' militia groups may be planning attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24 to 48 hours.
In a post on X, the embassy said such groups 'may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours', raising concerns over the safety of US citizens and installations in Iraq.
Threat to US Targets
According to the advisory, 'Iran and Iran-aligned terrorist militias have conducted widespread attacks against US citizens and targets associated with the United States throughout Iraq, including in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR).'
The embassy warned that potential targets could include US citizens, businesses, universities, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, and other locations perceived to be associated with the United States.
Kidnapping Risk and Militia Links
The alert highlighted the risk of kidnappings, stating that 'terrorist militias have targeted Americans for kidnapping'.
It added that 'the Iraqi government has not prevented terrorist attacks in or from Iraqi territory', and noted that some Iran-aligned militia groups may claim affiliation with Iraqi authorities and could 'carry identification denoting their status as Iraqi government employees'.
Travel Advisory and Exit Routes
Despite the heightened threat, the US Embassy remains operational under ordered departure status to assist American citizens. However, it strongly advised against visiting diplomatic facilities in Baghdad or the Consulate General in Erbil due to significant risks.
The embassy reiterated the US State Department’s Level 4 advisory, urging Americans not to travel to Iraq and to leave immediately if already present. It warned that those choosing to remain are doing so at 'significant risk'.
According to the US Department of State Consular Affairs, Iraq’s airspace is closed and commercial flights are not operating. Overland routes to Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye remain open, though travellers should expect long delays. Local ground transportation is still functioning, and Americans have been advised to depart via these routes.
Kidnapping Case Under Investigation
Earlier, American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson was reportedly abducted in Baghdad. The US Department of State confirmed it is investigating the case.
Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Dylan Johnson said the individual had previously been warned about security risks.
"The State Department previously fulfilled our duty to warn this individual of threats against them, and we will continue to coordinate with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to ensure their release as quickly as possible," he said.
