US Issues Security Alert For Iraq on Reopened Iraqi Airspace and Continued Threats From Missiles, Drones, Rockets and Militia

IRAQ — The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert May 5 after Iraq reopened its airspace with limited commercial flights operating. Travelers considering air travel within the country face ongoing potential risks from missiles, drones, and rockets in Iraqi airspace.

The alert reiterates the U.S. Department of State Level 4 Do Not Travel warning for Iraq and advises American citizens not to travel to Iraq for any reason and to depart immediately if they are there.

The embassy reported that Iraq’s Iran-aligned militias continue to plan additional attacks against American citizens and U.S.-associated targets throughout Iraq, including the Kurdish Region of Iraq. Certain entities affiliated with the Iraqi government provide political, financial, and operational cover for these militias.

The U.S. Mission in Iraq maintains operations despite the ordered departure of non-emergency personnel to assist American citizens.

Citizens should not attempt to proceed to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad or the Consulate General in Erbil due to significant security risks.

Those needing assistance should contact the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad via BaghdadACS@state.gov or the Consulate General in Erbil via ErbilACS@state.gov.

Iraqi airport information lists these facilities:

• Baghdad International Airport

• Erbil International Airport

• Basrah International Airport

• Jalal Talabani International Airport (Sulaymaniyah)

Commercial flights operate from neighboring countries including Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. Land routes to those countries remain open with local ground transportation options available.

American citizens wishing to travel via land crossings should check security alerts and travel advisories for those countries at official U.S. embassy websites. Routine consular services in Iraq remain suspended, including all visa services. Americans should contact the designated embassy or consulate emails in case of emergency.

Strategic Assessment

The embassy continues operations on ordered departure status to deliver essential support for American citizens while limiting exposure.

Militia planning activity with reported governmental cover elements in Iraq indicates threats to U.S. persons persist. Overland routes and third-country air connections from Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey represent the primary viable exit options under current airspace conditions.

The Bangladeshi release highlights the humanitarian dimension for foreign worker populations in affected Gulf areas.

Official Statements

• U.S. Embassy Baghdad, May 5, 2026: “Iraq’s airspace has been reopened, and limited commercial flights are currently operating. Individuals considering air travel within Iraq should be aware of the ongoing potential risks posed by missiles, drones, and rocket-propelled grenades in Iraqi airspace. The U.S. Embassy in Iraq reminds American citizens of the Level 4: Do Not Travel warning for Iraq. American citizens are advised: ‘Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Depart now if you are there.’”

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Dhaka, May 5, 2026: “Bangladesh expresses its deep concern over the recent attacks on civilian infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates, posing grave risk to civilian lives including those of Bangladeshis residing in the country. Regrettably, eight Bangladeshis have already lost their lives in the ongoing conflict in the region. Bangladesh firmly believes that all disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy and urges all parties concerned to refrain from any action that may further aggravate the already volatile situation in the region.”