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The US Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert on July 28 warning of drone and rocket activity across Iraq. The alert says Iran-aligned militia groups have launched attacks from Iraqi territory at targets inside Iraq and across the region.
US Mission Iraq told American citizens there is potential for missiles, drones, and rockets in Iraqi airspace. It advised them to maintain heightened readiness, monitor local media, and follow instructions from local authorities. The alert warns that travel disruptions and airspace closures could happen on short notice.
The mission repeated the Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory for Iraq, which cites terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, and civil unrest. It also cites the limited ability of the US government to provide emergency services inside the country. The advisory tells citizens: "Do not travel to Iraq for any reason."
Anyone still moving in or out of the country was told to check flight status with the airline before leaving for the airport, because schedules may change with little notice. The alert lists live arrival and departure pages for Erbil, Baghdad, Basrah, and Sulaymaniyah airports.
US Mission Iraq remains open while on ordered departure, meaning non-emergency staff have been directed to leave. Citizens who need help can contact US Embassy Baghdad or Consulate General Erbil by email. The mission also pointed to the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and the State Department's security updates channel on WhatsApp.
The alert lands in the middle of a sharp escalation. US and Saudi aircraft struck weapons and logistics sites used by Iran-backed groups across eastern Iraq this week, which the Circuit reported on Wednesday. US Central Command linked those strikes to more than 30 drone attempts on US and Saudi targets in the preceding 72 hours.
The Popular Mobilization Forces said at least 20 of its fighters were killed and 32 wounded in the overnight strikes, according to The Associated Press. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi called an emergency meeting of the country's National Security Council on Wednesday to discuss them.
Iraq has issued similar guidance repeatedly through this war. Erbil International Airport suspended all flights on July 21 after Iraqi air defenses shot down three explosive-laden drones near the US consulate there, as the Circuit reported at the time.
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