President Trump and The State Department is urging US citizens to leave Iraq immediately following the airstrike that killed terrorist leader Qasem Soleimani.
The president retweeted a warning from the State Department on Friday morning that advised Americans to leave the Middle East nation.
‘Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, we urge U.S. citizens to depart Iraq immediately. Due to Iranian-backed militia attacks at the U.S. Embassy compound, all consular operations are suspended. U.S. citizens should not approach the Embassy,’ the tweet read.
#Iraq: Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, we urge U.S. citizens to depart Iraq immediately. Due to Iranian-backed militia attacks at the U.S. Embassy compound, all consular operations are suspended. U.S. citizens should not approach the Embassy. pic.twitter.com/rdRce3Qr4a
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) January 3, 2020
The warning comes as Iran warns of ‘Harsh Retaliation’ against the U.S.
The Tweet was followed up with contact information for U.S. citizens in Iraq or anyone concerned about loved ones in Iraq:
#Iraq: U.S. citizens in Iraq or concerned about loved ones in Iraq can contact the Department of State at 202-501-4444 or toll-free in the U.S. at 888-407-4747. Avoid the U.S. Embassy in #Baghdad. Monitor local and international media for updates. pic.twitter.com/jt8hcBU6uH
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) January 3, 2020