The US Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert on Tuesday advising its citizens against traveling to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, and unrest.

The US Embassy in Baghdad mentioned in its alert, "We are closely monitoring reports of attacks and threats targeting businesses and institutions perceived to be affiliated with the United States."

"US citizens should be aware of this possibility, monitor local media for updates, and exercise caution in the vicinity of US-based or affiliated businesses and other institutions," it added.

The alert also noted that the State Department’s Travel Advisory for Iraq remains at Level 4: Do Not Travel, due to "terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to provide support to US citizens."

The #US Embassy advises against travel to #Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, and unrest, US citizens should stay alert and cautious amid threats to US-affiliated businesses, US Embassy in #Baghdad announced on Tuesday#TheNewRegion pic.twitter.com/GeqQOvd2Qs

— The New Region (@thenewregion) June 11, 2024

The last security alert issued by the US Embassy in Baghdad on October 22, 2023, warned of potential demonstrations and anti-US sentiment, especially around the 14th of July Bridge in Baghdad. 

The alert advised US citizens to monitor local media, avoid protests, and be aware that demonstrations related to the ongoing events in Gaza could quickly spread across Iraq, disrupting traffic, transportation, services, and potentially turning violent.

In May, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned recent attacks on American franchise restaurants in Iraq, including KFC and other brands. 

He confirmed that the US is monitoring the situation and welcomed Iraqi authorities' commitment to investigate the incidents thoroughly.

The attacks began with a masked assault on a KFC branch in Baghdad's Karrada district, followed by an IED explosion targeting another KFC on Palestine Street less than 24 hours later. 

Videos on social media showed individuals vandalizing the Karrada restaurant, while another explosion targeted Lee's and Chilli House restaurants on Palestine Street.

In response, Iraqi Minister of Interior Abdul Amir al-Shammari oversaw the reopening of affected areas and initiated accountability measures within the security forces. 

He announced the arrest of several suspects and ongoing search operations based on precise intelligence, reaffirming the government's commitment to public safety and security.