Possibility of Demonstrations

April 6, 2011

The Embassy of the United States in Iraq is currently following reports that large-scale public demonstrations may occur throughout Iraq on Friday, April 8 and Saturday, April 9.  The largest demonstration is expected to take place in Tahrir Square located in Baghdad.    There may be increased inconveniences and security risks to U.S. citizens throughout Iraq on these days.  U.S. citizens are advised to avoid large crowds and any protests they encounter.  Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

All U.S. citizens in Iraq, including those working on contract for the U.S. government, are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://travelregistration.state.gov.  U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. 

U.S. citizens may contact the U.S. Embassy, located in the International Zone, via e-mail to BaghdadACS@state.gov.  In the event of a U.S. citizen emergency that cannot wait until the next business day, the emergency number is:  0770-443-1286 (as dialed within Iraq) or 011-964-770-443-1286 (as dialed within the United States).

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and health-information resources can be found.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers in other areas by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).