Baghdad: The US Embassy in Baghdad has issued a strong advisory warning Americans against traveling to Iraq and advising its citizens currently in the country to avoid large gatherings. The advisory underscores the high level of risk associated with travel to the region.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the US Embassy emphasized the seriousness of the situation by maintaining a Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) travel advisory for Iraq. This level of advisory is the most severe, indicating that US citizens should refrain from traveling to Iraq for any reason.

The Embassy’s statement outlined several precautions for those who must travel, including avoiding large gatherings and crowds. It also advised Americans to maintain regular contact with family and friends, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely information and alerts, and facilitate location identification during emergencies. Travelers are encouraged to receive alerts via WhatsApp from the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs and to prepare an emergency plan while reviewing their traveler list. Following the Department of State on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter is also recommended.

The advisory also mentioned that while the land borders between Kuwait and Turkey remain accessible, it is possible to enter Kuwait from Iraq through the land border. The Embassy assured that it would continue to provide additional information as necessary. Although routine visa services have been temporarily suspended, both the Embassy and Consulate remain operational for US citizens seeking assistance.