US Embassy in Iraq issues security alert, warns of flight disruptions and closed airspace

The US Embassy in Iraq, on October 18, 2026, issued a security alert calling on its citizens in the Middle East to exercise caution due to rising security tensions and the possibility of disruptions to travel.

The embassy warned of the possibility of flight cancellations, airspace closures or widespread disruptions to air traffic, and asked Americans to follow the latest developments at airports and airlines and to check their flight status directly via airline websites or official airport sites, while planning alternative emergency options.

The embassy added that Iran and groups supported by it may target US interests abroad or sites associated with the United States and its citizens, including American companies and institutions, and reiterated the warning of these risks to travelers.

The embassy noted that Iran-backed Houthis have carried out attacks against Saudi Arabia that included civilian airports and vital infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties and major travel disruptions, suggesting "the possibility that the scope of hostile actions could rapidly expand beyond the immediate region."

The embassy concluded by advising US travelers to monitor flight status via the websites of Baghdad, Erbil, Basra and Sulaymaniyah airports in case of any changes to flight schedules or air traffic.