The Department of State has updated its travel advisory for Iraq, emphasizing the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel due to increasing regional tensions. The advisory, issued on June 11, 2025, strongly advises against travel to Iraq citing terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the limited ability of the U.S. government to provide emergency services.
U.S. citizens in Iraq face significant risks including violence and kidnapping from terrorist and insurgent groups that frequently target Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias pose threats to American citizens and international companies. The Department of State requires strict security measures for U.S. government personnel residing in Iraq due to these threats.
Demonstrations and protests occur frequently across the country, potentially disrupting transportation and services and sometimes escalating into violence. The advisory warns against traveling near armed groups or along Iraq’s northern borders because of ongoing threats from terrorist groups, armed conflict, aerial bombardment, and civil unrest.
The Kurdistan Regional Government has announced penalties for individuals illegally crossing the Iraq-Syria border, with potential prison sentences of up to ten years. Additionally, providing support to designated terrorist organizations can result in severe legal consequences under U.S. law.
Security concerns have led to a prohibition on U.S. government personnel using Baghdad International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also issued warnings regarding risks to civil aviation within or near Iraq.
Travelers who decide to visit Iraq are advised to establish personal security plans, prepare legal documents such as wills, leave DNA samples with medical providers for identification purposes if necessary, and have independent departure plans not reliant on U.S. government assistance.
Additional recommendations include enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), reviewing country-specific security reports, consulting health information from the CDC related to travel risks, and ensuring adequate insurance coverage is in place before traveling.
For more detailed guidance on safety measures while traveling in high-risk areas like Iraq or updates on specific threats or advisories related to Syria or aviation operations over Iraqi airspace, travelers are encouraged to consult official sources such as the Department of State's website.