US Issues Security Alert For Iraq on Reopened Iraqi Airspace and Continued Threats From Missiles, Drones, Rockets and Militia
Travelers considering air travel within the country face ongoing potential risks from missiles, drones, and rockets in Iraqi airspace.
IRAQ — The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert May 5 after Iraq reopened its airspace with limited commercial flights operating. Travelers considering air travel within the country face ongoing potential risks from missiles, drones, and rockets in Iraqi airspace.
The alert reiterates the U.S. Department of State Level 4 Do Not Travel warning for Iraq and advises American citizens not to travel to Iraq for any reason and to depart immediately if they are there.
The embassy reported that Iraq’s Iran-aligned militias continue to plan additional attacks against American citizens and U.S.-associated targets throughout Iraq, including the Kurdish Region of Iraq. Certain entities affiliated with the Iraqi government provide political, financial, and operational cover for these militias.
The U.S. Mission in Iraq maintains operations despite the ordered departure of non-emergency personnel to assist American citizens.
Citizens should not attempt to proceed to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad or the Consulate General in Erbil due to significant security risks.
Those needing assistance should contact the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad via BaghdadACS@state.gov or the Consulate General in Erbil via ErbilACS@state.gov.
Iraqi airport information lists these facilities:
Baghdad International Airport
Erbil International Airport
Basrah International Airport
Jalal Talabani International Airport (Sulaymaniyah)
Commercial flights operate from neighboring countries including Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. Land routes to those countries remain open with local ground transportation options available.
American citizens wishing to travel via land crossings should check security alerts and travel advisories for those countries at official U.S. embassy websites. Routine consular services in Iraq remain suspended, including all visa services. Americans should contact the designated embassy or consulate emails in case of emergency.
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