The embassy’s warning came in a security alert posted of its X page.
“Iraqi terrorist militia groups aligned with Iran may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours,” the post said.
The embassy noted that Iran and Iran-aligned militias have carried out attacks on US citizens and targets associated with the US.
“They may intend to target US citizens, businesses, universities, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, and other locations perceived to be associated with the United States, as well as Iraqi institutions and civilian targets,” the embassy said adding that Americans have been a target for kidnapping as well.
The warning comes days after an American journalist identified as Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in Iraq.
The State Department said an individual with ties to Iran-backed Kata’ib Hezbollah, believed to be involved in her kidnapping, was detained by Iraqi authorities. The State Department also said it previously warned Kittleson of threats against her and will continue to coordinate with the FBI to ensure her release as quickly as possible.
The US embassy post also highlighted that the Iraqi government has not prevented attacks in or from Iraqi territory.
Iran-aligned terrorist militia groups may claim to be associated with the Iraqi government. Terrorists may carry identification denoting their status as Iraqi government employees,” the embassy said calling on citizens not to come to the embassy in Baghdad or the consulate general in Erbil “in light of significant security risks.”
US citizens are advised not to “travel to Iraq for any reason,” and to “leave now” if they are there.
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