Iraq: US Embassy warns against travel to the country May 12

Event

The US Embassy issued a security alert to its citizens on Sunday, May 12, advising US citizens against traveling to the country amid heightened regional tensions. Reports indicate that the alert was issued following renewed tensions between the Iraqi government and Iran. The alert did not provide any additional details on the nature of the threat but advised all those present in the country to remain vigilant and avoid places known as US citizen gathering points. A visibly heightened security presence is to be anticipated in the near-term in the vicinity of US sites in the country.

Context

The security alert comes after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to Baghdad on May 7 where he said intelligence indicates that Iran is threatening US interests in the Middle East.

Advice

Individuals present in Iraq are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to maintain a heightened degree of situational awareness - particularly when visiting areas frequented by Westerners - and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the local authorities or their security manager.