United States: Iraqi government-linked entities support militias that threaten Americans
The US Embassy in Baghdad warned its citizens on Monday of continued security risks in Iraq, despite the reopening of airspace and the resumption of limited commercial flights, urging Americans not to travel to Iraq and to leave immediately if they are already there. It also accused parties linked to the Iraqi government of providing political, financial and operational cover to “Iranian-linked militias.”
The embassy said in a new security alert issued today, which was seen by Shafaq News Agency, that Iraqi airspace has been reopened, but air travelers through Iraq should be aware of the ongoing risks associated with missiles, drones and projectiles.
The embassy added that what it described as “Iraqi terrorist militias allied with Iran” continue to plan additional attacks against American citizens and US-related targets throughout Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region.
The US embassy accused “entities linked to the Iraqi government of providing political, financial, and operational cover to Iraqi militias allied with Iran,” and said they continue to plan attacks against US citizens and US-linked targets.
The embassy confirmed that the US mission in Iraq would continue to operate despite the mandatory departure order, noting that its services were limited to assisting American citizens, while warning against going to the embassy in Baghdad or the consulate in Erbil due to security risks.
The embassy renewed its Level 4 travel warning, which states “Do not travel to Iraq for any reason,” urging American citizens currently in the country to leave immediately.
Regarding exit options, the embassy noted that land routes to Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Turkey remain open, with long delays and local entry and exit procedures expected, as well as the possibility of higher airfares or cancellations at short notice.
The embassy also announced the suspension of all routine consular services in Iraq, including visa services, urging American citizens to communicate via email only in emergencies.
Shafaq.com