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U.S. State Department Advises Citizens to Leave Iraq via Overland Routes After Drone Attacks
The U.S. State Department issued a security alert on Wednesday recommending that American citizens depart Iraq immediately through overland routes due to drone attacks by Iran-allied militias near key sites. The alert follows a reported U.S.-Iran ceasefire and the release of a detained American journalist. Overland routes to neighboring countries remain open despite security risks.
Apr 8, 1:59 PM·1m read1 source
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U.S. citizens to leave the country immediately via overland routes. The alert cited drone attacks launched by Iran-allied militias near the Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center and Baghdad International Airport.
U.S. -associated targets throughout Iraq, including the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. U.S. State Department (The Hill) The alert noted that Iraqi authorities have announced plans to reopen airspace and resume commercial flights.
However, the State Department advised against air travel within Iraq due to risks from missiles, drones, and rockets. U.S. citizens were directed to use overland routes for departure.
The security alert follows President Trump's announcement on Tuesday of a two-week ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran, aimed at negotiating a long-term peace deal. Several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait, reported strikes from Iran after the ceasefire announcement.
The alert also comes after the capture of American journalist Shelly Kittleson by Kata’ib Hizballah near Baghdad last week. Kata’ib Hizballah, an Iran-backed militia, released Kittleson on Tuesday in exchange for detained group members in Iraq. U.S. citizens would not occur in the future. U.S. would continue efforts to bring Americans home and hold those responsible accountable.
Mission in Iraq remains open to assist American citizens with departure. U.S. facilities in Baghdad or Erbil due to significant security risks. Overland routes to Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey are available, though travelers should anticipate long delays.
U.S. Department of State's 24/7 Task Force at 202-501-4444. U.S. personnel and citizens. Iraqi airspace restrictions highlight broader security challenges affecting international travel and diplomacy.
