The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad has issued an urgent alert advising Americans in Iraq to shelter in place until further notice due to heightened security threats across the country.
The embassy urged U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution, avoid crowds, and maintain a low profile amid ongoing demonstrations. Protests, particularly near the July 14th Bridge in Baghdad, have turned violent, leading Iraqi authorities to close the International Zone. The U.S. Mission has also directed all staff to shelter in place and suspended consular operations.
Reports of missiles, drones, and rockets in Iraqi airspace continue, with the embassy stating that Iran-aligned terrorist militias pose a significant threat. Iraqi airspace is currently closed, and travelers are advised to contact airlines directly for updates. The State Department maintains a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Iraq.