US army personnel examining damage to the American embassy in Baghdad after it was struck. AP
“Americans face a risk of kidnapping, and US individuals have been directly targeted. Iran-aligned terrorist militias may hinder the Iraqi authorities’ ability to respond effectively in emergencies,” the embassy said.
“US citizens should leave Iraq immediately. US citizens who choose to remain in Iraq are encouraged to reconsider their decision given the significant threat posed by Iran-aligned terrorist militias,” the embassy added.
The warning comes amid escalating violence in Iraq. Armed groups and officials have reported that at least 37 people have been killed since the start of the US-Israel war on February 28.
Pro-Iran armed factions and security sources say that 32 of their fighters were killed in strikes they blame on the United States and Israel.
Meanwhile, Iran has launched multiple airstrikes against Kurdish Iranian rebels and US bases in Iraq’s Kurdistan region.
The Iraqi army has condemned these airstrikes, stating that it opposes any efforts to drag Iraq into the ongoing conflict.
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