US embassy in Iraq warns of potential attacks on sites frequented by Americans
The diplomatic mission in Baghdad has issued a statement saying it is aware of an increased potential for violence targeting US-owned businesses and locations frequented by US citizens, as Israel and Iran continue to exchange attacks.
“We urge all US citizens in Iraq to avoid locations frequented by foreigners and any large gatherings or crowds,” the embassy said.
It comes as Iraqi activists have called for a protest this evening near Baghdad’s Green Zone – where the embassy is located – to demand its shutdown and the departure of its staff from the country.
G7 to seek agreement on key points to solve Israel-Iran conflict
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the upcoming Group of Seven (G7) meeting could reach an agreement on four key points to help resolve the conflict between Israel and Iran.
Speaking as he prepared to fly to Canada for the summit, Merz said the four points were:
- Iran cannot develop or possess nuclear weapons.
- Israel has the right to defend itself against existential threats, which Merz said Iran’s nuclear programme represented.
- The conflict should not escalate.
- A scope for diplomacy must be created.
“I would like to add that in Germany we are also getting ready in case Iran should target Israeli or Jewish targets in Germany,” Merz told reporters, without going into more detail.
That's more a declaration of war than trying to de-escalate the situation.
Conflict escalating as Iran issues stark warning to Israel
It seems escalation is the name of the game after several rounds of back and forth. Iran is now starting new retaliatory actions against Israeli territory.
Prior to initiating this latest round of attacks, the spokesperson of the armed forces told Israelis that they have to leave because the land will be “inhabitable” in the near future.
This is a very strong message of warning. He also said that staying in shelters won’t bring security.
People across the country are angry, this is the biggest wave of attacks since the Iran-Iraq War in 1988.
