The U.S. Mission in Iraq issued a security alert on July 16, warning American citizens of possible travel disruptions and airspace closures following drone attacks on Erbil a day earlier.
In a statement posted by the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, the mission said the drone activity followed Iran-enabled drone attacks in Erbil on July 15 and urged U.S. citizens in Iraq to maintain heightened readiness, monitor local media, and follow instructions from local authorities. The statement noted that travel disruptions and airspace closures could occur on short notice.
The mission also reiterated the U.S. State Department's Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Iraq, citing terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the U.S. government's limited ability to provide emergency services to citizens in the country.
According to the statement, U.S. Mission Iraq remains open while operating under ordered departure status. American Citizen Services appointments can still be scheduled at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, and citizens needing assistance can contact the embassy at BaghdadACS@state.gov or the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil at ErbilACS@state.gov.
The mission advised citizens planning to travel out of Iraq to check flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport, noting that schedules may change with little notice. It also recommended enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), keeping travel documents accessible, avoiding protests and demonstrations, and keeping cell phones charged with emergency numbers pre-programmed.
In case of an attack, the mission advised citizens to stay away from debris, seek cover, and monitor news outlets for official guidance.