US embassy warns of Iran-linked threats to American universities in Iraq
WASHINGTON, D.C.: As the future of war remains uncertain amid the peace talk initiative by Pakistan and speculation about a ground invasion in Iran, the US embassy in Baghdad, Iraq issued a security alert on Sunday, March 29.
The embassy warned of threats from Tehran-backed militia groups targeting US-affiliated establishments across Iraq, “including diplomatic facilities, universities, businesses, energy infrastructure, and other sites believed to have ties to the United States, including in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.”
The alert stated that the militia may be planning to attack America-linked universities and other similar infrastructure. Embassy officials also advised US citizens to leave Iraq amid escalating tensions, according to a post on X.
“Iran and its affiliated te**orist militias may intend to target American universities in Baghdad, Sulaymaniyah, and Dohuk, as well as other universities perceived as connected to the United States,” the embassy said.
The embassy officials noted that Tehran has specifically targeted American-linked universities, stating, “Iran has directed threats toward American universities across various parts of the Middle East.”
The security alert also warned of public security threats posed by Iran-backed paramilitary groups in Iraq, who have previously targeted US-associated establishments and individuals. It stated that these groups have carried out “widespread attacks on American citizens and US-associated targets throughout Iraq, including in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.”
“US citizens are advised to depart Iraq immediately,” the embassy added.
Continuing to highlight potential security threats from these groups, the Embassy’s security advisory stated that Iran-affiliated groups might “kidnap US citizens.”
The Embassy concluded the security of its people is “top priority, whether for President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, or the Department of State.”
US to carry out ground invasion in Iran?
Speculation about a ground invasion in Iran has increased as more than 3,000 US soldiers and a similar number of Marines have arrived in the Middle East. Reports suggest the operation may include an invasion of Kharg Island, which processes 90 percent of Iran’s crude oil and is considered the backbone of its oil economy.
Donald Trump, on Sunday, March 29, said that the US could seize Iran’s oil assets and target Kharg Island, the export hub of Iran.
Enemies will not escape without lesson: Iran
Meanwhile, amid growing speculation of a US ground invasion, Iran stated that it is fighting a "major world war" and that Iranian forces are waiting for enemy troops.
“Our enemy speaks publicly of negotiations while secretly planning a ground attack, without realizing our forces are waiting for the Americans to enter,” said Iranian Parliament speaker, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf.
“We will not allow our enemies to leave without demonstrating our power and turning this war into a lesson for any aggressor.”
