On January 3, 2020, the United States Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency government personnel from Iraq, citing ongoing threat of terrorist attacks. The department issued a travel advisory for Iraq, noting that the security situation in the country “remains unpredictable and could change quickly.” The advisory recommended that American citizens “remain alert to their surroundings, avoid inciting public gatherings, and be aware of their surroundings at all times.” The State Department continues to advise against travel to Iraq, citing the persistent security situation and the risk of kidnappings, bombings, and other crime.