The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad warned U.S. citizens on Thursday (the 2nd) to leave Iraq immediately, citing the possibility of attacks by Iran-linked terrorist groups in central Baghdad within the next 24-48 hours.

In a security alert, the embassy stated, "Iraqi terrorist militias linked to Iran may carry out attacks in central Baghdad within the next 24-48 hours."

The statement added that these groups have "carried out widespread attacks targeting U.S. citizens and U.S.-affiliated targets throughout Iraq, including in the Kurdistan region of Iraq."

The embassy stated, "The Iraqi government has failed to prevent terrorist attacks occurring inside and outside Iraqi territory."

The warning also pointed out that Iran-linked groups "may claim affiliation with the Iraqi government," and that terrorists "may carry identification indicating they are employees of the Iraqi government."

It continued, "Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. If you are there, leave immediately," adding that those who remain are "at significant risk."

This warning comes in the wake of the kidnapping of American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson in Baghdad on Tuesday. U.S. and Iraqi authorities have stated that the suspected kidnappers are linked to the Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah militia.

Potential targets for terrorist attacks include U.S. citizens, businesses, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, hotels, airports, and other locations perceived as affiliated with U.S. or Iraqi institutions.

The embassy also noted that terrorist groups are targeting Americans for kidnapping.

The Federal State Department maintains its highest level of travel advisory, a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" warning for Iraq, due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, and limited U.S. government assistance.

The embassy urged Americans to depart immediately and recommended using land routes to adjacent countries due to airspace restrictions.

U.S. NNP=Sung Ku Hong Chief Reporter / Special Correspondent for this paper NNP info@newsandpost.com