US urges its citizens in Iraq to avoid crowds

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US Embassy in Baghdad issued a heightened security alert on Sunday, urging Americans in Iraq to avoid crowds, citing increased threats.

The embassy "is aware of the increased potential for foreign terrorist organization-inspired violence or attacks against U.S. businesses and locations frequented by U.S. citizens," the embassy said.

It urged all US citizens in Iraq to avoid "locations frequented by foreigners and any large gatherings or crowds."

"We will continue to assess the situation and provide additional information as needed. The Travel Advisory for Iraq remains Level 4: Do Not Travel. U.S. citizens should not travel to Iraq for any reason," it added.