US issues warning over Iran-aligned militias in Iraq

The State Department on Friday warned U.S. citizens that Iran-aligned militias in Iraq may seek to target hotels frequented by foreigners in Iraq's Kurdistan region, as the U.S. scrambled to help thousands of Americans stranded in the Middle East.



The Trump administration has faced criticism over its planning and initial assistance to U.S. citizens trying to leave the region since U.S.-Israeli strikes began on Saturday and Iran responded with attacks on its neighbors, sparking airspace closures.



"U.S. citizens in Iraq are strongly encouraged to depart as soon as they are safely able to do so," an alert from the U.S. embassy in Baghdad said. "Americans choosing not to depart should be prepared to shelter in place in a secure location for extended periods. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items."