Baghdad [Iraq], April 2 (ANI): The Baghdad US Embassy has issued an urgent security alert on Thursday, warning that Iran-aligned 'terrorist' militia groups may be planning attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24 to 48 hours.

In a post on X, the embassy cautioned that such groups 'may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours,' raising concerns over the safety of US citizens and installations in Iraq.

https://x.com/USEmbBaghdad/status/2039573668464914749

According to the advisory, 'Iran and Iran-aligned terrorist militias have conducted widespread attacks against US citizens and targets associated with the United States throughout Iraq, including in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR).'

The embassy warned that potential targets could include US citizens, businesses, universities, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, and other locations perceived to be associated with the United States.

The alert also highlighted the risk of kidnappings, noting that ' terrorist militias have targeted Americans for kidnapping.'

'The Iraqi government has not prevented terrorist attacks in or from Iraqi territory,' the embassy stated, adding that some Iran-aligned militia groups may claim affiliation with Iraqi authorities and could 'carry identification denoting their status as Iraqi government employees.'

Despite the claimed heightened threat, the US embassy in Iraq remains operational under an ordered departure status to assist American citizens. However, the embassy strongly advised against visiting diplomatic facilities in Baghdad or the Consulate General in Erbil due to significant risks.

The embassy reiterated the US State Department's Level 4 travel advisory for Iraq, urging Americans not to travel to the country under any circumstances and to leave immediately if they are already present.

The advisory said, 'The US Embassy in Iraq reminds US citizens of the Level 4: Do Not Travel warning for Iraq. US citizens are advised: 'Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Leave now if you are there.''

The advisory warned, 'US citizens choosing to remain in Iraq are doing so at significant risk.'

According to the latest update by the US Dept of State Consular Affairs from their official X handle, 'TravelGov', the airspace is closed, and commercial flights are not operating out of Iraq.

https://x.com/TravelGov/status/2039588779443569016

It said that overland routes to Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye are open. The update further said that travellers should expect long delays.

It added, 'Local ground transportation options are functioning. Americans should depart now via one of these overland routes.'

Earlier, Shelly Kittleson, an American freelance journalist and contributor to Al-Monitor, was reportedly abducted in Baghdad, with the US Department of State confirming it is investigating the case and noting that she had previously been warned about security risks in the region.

Dylan Johnson, an assistant secretary of state for global public affairs, confirmed in a post on X, 'The US Department of State is aware of the reported kidnapping of an American journalist in Baghdad, Iraq.'

Highlighting the proactive measures taken prior to the incident, Johnson stated that the victim had been alerted to potential dangers. 'The State Department previously fulfilled our duty to warn this individual of threats against them, and we will continue to coordinate with the FBI to ensure their release as quickly as possible,' he added. (ANI)