Baghdad: The US Embassy in Baghdad has issued an urgent appeal to American citizens, urging them to leave Iraq immediately due to the threat of imminent attacks in the capital within the next 24 to 48 hours.

According to Anadolu Agency, a security alert posted on the US social media platform X indicated that Iran-allied Iraqi militias might be orchestrating attacks in central Baghdad aimed at US citizens and interests. The potential targets outlined by the embassy include Americans, companies, universities, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, as well as Iraqi institutions and civilian sites perceived to be linked to the United States.

The embassy further emphasized that militias have a history of targeting Americans for kidnapping, thereby urging citizens to leave the country without delay. The alert explicitly stated, "Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Leave immediately if you are there."

The warning also highlighted the Iraqi government's inability to prevent such attacks, whether occurring within or originating from its territory. Additionally, it pointed out that some militia members might have ties to state institutions or possess official identification.

The United States has accused certain Iraqi militant groups of connections with Iran and of executing attacks on US bases in the region. The US and Israel have been conducting an air offensive on Iran since late February, resulting in over 1,340 fatalities, including the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

In response, Iran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets. These actions have led to casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions in global markets and aviation.