U.S. tells Americans to leave Iraq ''immediately'' amid rising security threats

The United States is urging its citizens in Iraq to leave the country immediately, warning of growing security threats and the risk of new attacks targeting Americans.

In a stark message, the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad told Americans to avoid travel to Iraq “for any reason” and advised those already there to get out while they still can.

The warning points to intelligence suggesting that militias operating in Iraq and linked to Iran may be planning further attacks against U.S. citizens and American interests.

The embassy also raised concerns about what it described as support from elements within the Iraqi system, saying some groups continue to provide backing, political, financial, and operational, to these militias.

Flights back but risks remain

The alert comes as Iraqi airspace has reopened and a limited number of commercial flights have resumed, giving Americans a possible way out.

But officials are cautioning that even leaving the country carries risks.

Travelers are being warned to stay alert to potential threats from missiles, drones, and rockets, an indication of just how volatile the situation remains.

Embassy access off-limits

In an unusual step, the embassy is also telling Americans not to attempt to visit its compound in Baghdad or the U.S. consulate in Erbil, citing serious security concerns.

Instead, citizens are being urged to communicate with officials electronically.

Why this matters beyond Iraq

While the warning is directed at Americans in Iraq, it reflects wider instability in the region, something closely watched in Cyprus given its proximity to the Middle East.

Any escalation could have ripple effects, from regional security concerns to travel disruptions, putting authorities across the Eastern Mediterranean on alert.