On 15 June, 2025, the United States Embassy in Baghdad sent an emergency security message to U.S. citizens in or visiting Iraq. The alert is in light of increased threats of violence driven by foreign terrorist organizations, and the emphasis is on U.S. businesses and areas where American citizens have been known to gather.
High Threat Level: “Do Not Travel”
The United States Department of State has a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Iraq, the highest level, advising all United States citizens to avoid traveling there for any purpose. The current advisory reinstates this even more forcefully now because of the recent surge in potential terrorist activities.
Officials are asking all Iraqi citizens to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary and to distance themselves from massive crowds, public gatherings, and other venues where foreign nationals tend to congregate.
Nationwide Security Risk
While the warning is issued by the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, the alert is countrywide. What that entails is Americans not only in the capital city but also throughout Iraq like Erbil are being requested to exercise caution to an extreme degree.
The embassy advisory highlights the uncertain character of potential violence and requires enhanced situational awareness and personal safety measures.
Specific Actions Recommended
American citizens presently in Iraq are advised to exercise the following precautions:
- Avoid crowds and public places.
- Closely follow local media for security information.
- Constantly be aware of their environment.
- Report suspicious activity to local authorities or the nearest U.S. consulate.
- Register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely messages and updates directly from the embassy.
- Review emergency planning exercises, including how to exit and how to report.
These steps are considered vital to maintaining the security and safety of Americans in Iraq at this time of uncertainty.
U.S. Government Assistance Contacts
The U.S. government continues to provide emergency assistance through its missions in Iraq:
U.S. Embassy Baghdad
- Address: Al-Kindi Street, International Zone, Baghdad
- Business Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Phone (Local): +964-760-030-3000
- Phone (U.S.): +1-301-985-8841
- Emergency After Hours: Same numbers; request the duty officer
- Email: BaghdadACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Erbil
- Address: 413 Ishtar, Ankawa, Erbil
- Business Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Phone (Local): +964-66-211-4000
- Phone (U.S.): +1-240-264-3467, ext. 4554
- Emergency After Hours: Same numbers; request the duty officer
- Email: ErbilACS@state.gov
These contact points are empowered to assist American citizens during normal and emergency circumstances.
Social Media and Online Alerts
Individuals should also stay connected to the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter/X for current information and official releases. Periodically, warnings are posted to inform U.S. nationals of danger in high-risk locations.
Why This Matters
This heightened caution is evidence of the ongoing instability in Iraq and the real danger posed by militant factions in the nation. The situation is fluid, and the lives of Americans will be put in harm’s way if caution is not exercised.
U.S. citizens are warned that the ability of the U.S. government to assist can be limited during quickly unfolding events. Self-preparation and adherence to embassy guidance is not an option but it is mandatory.
Final Word
If you are an American living in Iraq, the message is clear: stay alert, stay aware, and stay safe. Don’t ignore the risks and he active to protect yourself and your family. Take advantage of all resources at your disposal, including embassy services and emergency hotlines, to ensure that you are protected in this unstable setting. Times are tough and we expect you to be safe. All in all, stay informed and keep following the officials to get all the latest details.
