US urges citizens to leave Iraq immediately amid Iran-backed militia threat
The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued an urgent security alert Sunday, warning Iran and its affiliated militias may be planning attacks on American-linked universities and other U.S.-associated targets across Iraq.
In a statement shared on X, the embassy said officials are advising all U.S. citizens to leave the country immediately amid escalating threats.
“Iran and its affiliated terrorist militias may intend to target American universities in Baghdad, Sulaymaniyah, and Dohuk, as well as other universities perceived as connected to the United States,” the embassy said.
“Iran has specifically directed threats toward American universities across various parts of the Middle East,” it said, before highlighting that Iran-aligned terrorist militias have carried out “widespread attacks on American citizens and U.S.-associated targets throughout Iraq, including in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.”
“U.S. citizens are advised to depart Iraq immediately,” the embassy said, adding that Iran-aligned groups pose an ongoing threat.
The embassy said Iran and its affiliated armed groups pose a serious threat to public security in Iraq.
“These groups have conducted attacks and are likely to attempt further ones against U.S.-associated targets throughout Iraq, including diplomatic facilities, universities, businesses, energy infrastructure, and other sites believed to have ties to the United States, including in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region,” it said.
“Iran-aligned terrorist armed groups have also attacked commercial airports and hotels frequented by foreigners. These groups may attempt to kidnap Americans,” the embassy warned.
The embassy said the safety and security of American citizens is its “top priority, whether for President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, or the Department of State.”
Posted by Emma Bussey
