The U.S. Embassy in Iraq is warning citizens to leave the country due to escalating threats from Iran-backed militias targeting Americans and U.S. interests.
U.S. Embassy Warning and Recent Attacks
The U.S. Embassy has cautioned that Iranian-supported Shia militias in Iraq are conducting attacks against U.S. citizens and facilities within the country. The embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid both embassy locations due to the ongoing threat of rockets and drones in Iraqi airspace.
These attacks follow a series of airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of fighters from the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a coalition of pro-Iranian militias integrated into the Iraqi military. The PMF blames the United States for these strikes.
Iraqi Condemnation of Airstrike
On Wednesday, seven Iraqi soldiers were killed and 13 injured in an airstrike targeting a PMF base near a military medical center in Al-Anbar province, western Iraq, according to security sources and the Iraqi Ministry of Defense.
The Iraqi Ministry of Defense condemned the attack as a “flagrant” and “serious violation” of international law, stating it represents a dangerous escalation and calling for those responsible to be held accountable. The targeted facility included a military clinic and an engineering unit.
Details of the Targeted Facility
A security official stated the attacked facility was used by Iraqi soldiers, police, and the PMF, and had been targeted in a previous attack attributed to the United States on Tuesday.
What are the PMF?
The Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) originated from pro-Iranian Shia militias over a decade ago during Iraq’s war against the Islamic State (IS). The formation was called into action in 2014 following a fatwa by Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, urging Iraqi citizens to defend the country against the jihadist offensive.
Over time, the PMF evolved from a temporary volunteer force into a powerful state structure, officially incorporated into the Iraqi armed forces in 2016. Despite formal subordination to the Iraqi Prime Minister, many units maintain strong autonomy and close ideological and financial ties with Tehran. Groups like Kataib Hezbollah, designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., are part of the PMF.
Polish Foreign Ministry Advises Against Travel to Iraq
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs also advises against travel to Iraq, warning that an escalation of armed conflict could pose a direct threat to the safety and health of travelers. The ministry cites a very tense political situation across the Middle East as negatively impacting the security of those present.
The ministry recommends avoiding public gatherings and demonstrations, as well as areas near military bases and facilities. Travelers are advised to limit movement in markets, shopping centers, restaurants, and banks, and to avoid using the services of unfamiliar individuals, following the guidance of local authorities.
