Episode Details

U.S. Government Warns Citizens: Leave Iraq Immediately Due to Iran-Backed Militia Threats

The U.S. government has issued a dire warning for American citizens in Iraq, urging them to depart immediately due to imminent threats from Iran-backed militias. These groups have targeted U.S. interests before and are now planning attacks on various locations, including embassies, hotels, airports, energy sites, and civilian areas, within the next 24 to 48 hours.

This warning comes after freelance journalist Shelly Renee Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad earlier this week, with U.S. officials pointing to Kataib Hezbollah as the suspected kidnappers. Kittleson has been covering Iraq and Syria for years, and her abduction fits the militias pattern of targeting Americans.

Iraqi security forces have been actively pursuing the kidnappers, apprehending one suspect and continuing to search for the others. The U.S. State Department and FBI are also working together to secure Kittlesons release.

The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and consulate in Erbil have been operating with minimal staff, and Iraq has been designated at Level Four, the highest do-not-travel warning. Travelers should depart immediately, as airspace is closed, and borders are congested with delays. The situation is rapidly evolving, and officials stress the importance of staying vigilant and leaving while routes are still open.

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