No Change in Operations in Baghdad and Erbil Amid Regional Tensions
The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad confirmed that its missions in Baghdad and Erbil remain fully operational, dismissing closure rumors. It reaffirmed U.S. commitment to Iraq amid regional tensions and urged continued vigilance following earlier security alerts.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued a public clarification on Friday, June 20, 2025, affirming that operations at both its Baghdad embassy and the Consulate General in Erbil remain fully operational despite recent regional unrest.
"The operating status of Embassy Baghdad and Consulate General Erbil is unchanged," the Embassy announced in a post on its official Facebook page, seeking to reassure the public and counter rumors suggesting partial closures or staff relocations.
The Embassy further underlined the United States’ commitment to its ongoing presence and engagement in Iraq. "The U.S. remains strongly committed to advancing our policy priorities in Iraq, strengthening Iraq’s sovereignty, and engaging with Iraqi leaders and the Iraqi people," the statement continued.
This reassurance comes in the wake of a prior security alert issued by the Embassy, warning of increased threats from armed groups targeting American citizens, businesses, and interests in the region. While that alert recommended heightened vigilance and avoidance of certain areas, Friday’s post aimed to clarify that no operational downgrades or closures have been implemented.
The post reaffirmed Washington’s emphasis on maintaining diplomatic and political channels with Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region, highlighting the importance of U.S.-Iraqi ties amid escalating tensions in the broader Middle East.
The Embassy has not provided further details about the security measures currently in place but encouraged continued observance of its previous safety guidance.
U.S. officials have consistently maintained that Iraq remains a central partner in regional diplomacy, and Friday’s statement echoes that policy line. The Embassy said it would remain engaged and transparent in its communications with both the Iraqi government and the general public.
