03/08/2026
Updates.
SECURITY ALERT – U.S. EMBASSY BAGHDAD, IRAQ – MARCH 8, 2026 - EVENING UPDATE
MARCH 8, 2026
Event
The U.S. government cares about your safety and will continue to share up-to-the-minute information you need to make informed decisions about your security. We are working on additional options to assist Americans to depart the Middle East.
Any new departure options will be shared with U.S. citizens seeking to depart. We will continue to share up-to-the-minute information you need to make informed decisions about your safety.
U.S. citizens in Iraq can also call the State Department at +1-202-501-4444 to receive departure information and assistance.
Iran and Iran-aligned militia/terrorist groups continue to pose a significant threat to public safety. There have been calls for attacks against U.S. citizens and U.S. interests in Iraq. Hotels frequented by foreigners and other facilities in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region have been targeted. Critical infrastructure sites throughout Iraq have also been attacked. Congregating in areas associated with the United States or with groups of other U.S. citizens could put you at risk. U.S. citizens are urged to remain vigilant and maintain a low profile.
U.S. citizens in Iraq are strongly encouraged to depart as soon as they are safely able to do so. Americans choosing not to depart should be prepared to shelter in place in a secure location for extended periods. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.
Options to Depart
Commercial flights are currently not operating out of Iraq. There are overland routes to Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. Most land borders are open but could close on short notice. Local ground transportation options are functioning. Americans should strongly consider departing via one of these overland routes if they believe it is safe to do so. Airspace in neighboring countries may also be closed, and local entry and exit requirements apply. The following information is intended to inform your decision making and is subject to change.
Jordan
Airspace in Jordan is currently open, but flight disruptions may continue to occur. Information on flights out of Amman can be found here: https://www.qaiairport.com/en/arrivals-departures/
Visas on arrival are not available at the land border crossing with Iraq. U.S. citizens must apply for a visa using the eVisa Application through the Ministry of Interior .
Kuwait
Airspace in Kuwait is closed, but roadways to Saudi Arabia are open.
U.S. citizens may obtain visas on arrival in Kuwait.
Americans seeking to return to the United States from Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, or Qatar can complete this form to receive information on U.S. government facilitated departure options: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake .
Saudi Arabia
Airspace in Saudi Arabia is open and commercial options to depart the region are available.
Visas on arrival are an option for U.S. citizens, but applying for an e-visa online may help avoid delays at the port of entry. Tourist visas cost approximately $105 USD. Transit visas cost approximately $10.50 USD but are valid only for up to 96 hours.
Americans seeking to return to the United States from Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, or Qatar can complete this form to receive information on U.S. government facilitated departure options: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake .
Türkiye
Airspace in Türkiye is open and commercial flight options are available.
U.S. citizens can enter Türkiye visa free for up to 90 days. If your passport has less than 6 months’ validity, contact [email protected] for assistance.
Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams . Be careful of anyone asking for money. If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help .
Shelter in Place
U.S. Mission Iraq has issued a shelter in place notification for Iraq. We recommend all Americans in Iraq do the same until further notice. To the extent possible, remain in your residence, hotel, or another structure, and stay away from windows.
There have been riots, protests, and other demonstrations against the United States, especially on the south bank of the July 14th Bridge and Tahrir Square in Baghdad. These riots have been violent, and there are calls for additional demonstrations throughout Iraq. U.S. citizens should avoid these areas.
Iran-aligned terrorist militia groups have targeted hotels frequented by foreigners in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. Americans should carefully consider lodging options in that region.
The risk of missiles, drones, and rockets in Iraqi airspace continues. Stay under cover to the extent possible to avoid falling debris.
Iraqi authorities have closed the International Zone in central Baghdad, with limited exceptions. Do not attempt to come to the Embassy in Baghdad or Consulate General in Erbil in light of heightened security measures.
Embassy and Consulate Operations
The U.S. Embassy Baghdad and Consulate General Erbil have suspended all routine consular services. Americans should contact [email protected] or [email protected] in case of emergency.
Actions to Take
Maintain communication with family and friends to inform them of your status.
Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible. If your passport has less than 6-months validity, contact [email protected] or [email protected].
Find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.
In case of an attack, stay away from any debris, and monitor news outlets for official guidance.
Avoid protests and demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Pay close attention to communications from local officials.
Rely only on information from trusted sources, such as the U.S. Department of State.
Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams . Be careful of anyone asking for money. If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help .
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety and security updates from the U.S. Embassy.
Keep your cell phone charged and pre-programmed with the following emergency numbers.
Assistance
Local emergency number for Iraq: 911
U.S. Embassy Baghdad: [email protected]
Consulate General Erbil: [email protected]
U.S. Department of State: call 202-501-4444 from abroad or 888-407-4747 when calling from the U.S. and Canada.
