Is Traveling To Mosul Safe?

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (FCDO) has issued travel advice for Iraq, emphasizing the importance of safety and security. The guide advises against travel to areas such as Mosul, Al-Qaim, and Hawijah due to concerns about terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to support US citizens.

Mosul is often considered a battleground, not a tourist destination, and was captured by Islamic State fighters in June 2014. If you are in Iraq, it is advised to leave as soon as possible. If you choose to travel, contact your travel provider or the nearest embassy or consulate for the latest information on entry.

The government of Iraq has begun to improve the structural integrity of the city, but ongoing security concerns persist. While efforts are being made to restore stability, significant challenges remain. However, there are no bombs in Mosul and all of Iraq, and Europeans are welcome to visit.

Mosul is a city full of hope and is becoming more vibrant. However, fake vehicle checkpoints have been used to launch terrorist attacks, and militant groups opposing a western presence pose a threat to UK and other interests. The FCDO advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), with all but essential travel to KRI advised. The latest update states that the security situation remains volatile, and the guide continues to advise against travel to Iraq.

Is Iraq safe for tourists?

The Department of Foreign Affairs advises against travel to Iraq due to the country’s dangerous security situation and high threat of terrorist attacks. To make informed decisions, it is recommended to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains, and legal costs. It is crucial to check any exclusions and ensure the policy covers the activities you plan to undertake.

Is Mosul still at war?

Former Iraqi ground forces commander Ali Ghaidan accused former Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki of ordering the withdrawal from Mosul, which remained under IS control for a few years. Iraqi forces began an offensive to retake the city in 2016, and the Battle of Mosul ended in its liberation in July the following year. In December 2013, ongoing clashes occurred between tribal militias, Iraqi security forces, and the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (IS) throughout western Iraq.

IS militants captured cities like Fallujah and Hīt in January 2014, bringing much of the Al Anbar Governorate under their control. The Iraqi Army then began an offensive into Anbar to retake the region. Iraqi forces recaptured Samarra in June 2014, and heavily shelled Fallujah to weaken IS forces. In June, insurgents began advancing into central and northern parts of Iraq, killing IS military chief Abu Abdulrahman al-Bilawi near Mosul. IS named the military operation that resulted in Mosul “Bilawi Vengeance”, referencing their late commander’s alias.

Is Mosul worth visiting?

The author thoroughly explored the south and north of the country, with Visit Mosul being a standout experience. They felt safe and well-informed, recommending them highly and feeling grateful for their decision.

Is Russia safe to visit?

Russian security services have arrested US citizens on false charges, denied fair treatment, and convicted them without credible evidence. They have also opened questionable investigations against US citizens engaged in religious activities. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has destabilized southwestern Russia, leading to martial law in border areas with Ukraine. Under martial law, authorities can set curfews, seize property, and restrict movement. U. S. citizens should avoid travel to these areas.

Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia’s interests”, targeting individuals for posting on social media or supporting anti-Russian groups. The current “LGBT propaganda” law bans discussion of LGBTQI+ related topics, and the Supreme Court labeled the “international LGBT movement” as extremist in November 2023.

Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Russia, targeting tourist areas, transport hubs, markets, government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, events, schools, and airports. U. S. government employees under Embassy security responsibility are not permitted to travel to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus.

Where is the safest place to visit in Iraq?

Northern Iraqi Kurdistan, an autonomous region in Iraq, has been a safe haven for travelers for several years. The region controls its own borders and has a separate regional government, army, and visa policy compared to the rest of the country. The tour led by Zoe and local guide Tambee were fantastic, providing an excellent experience.

The tour included visits to major cities, UNESCO sites, the Syrian Riviera, and a vibrant carnival celebration. The tour leader, Alex, ensured comfort throughout the trip, while Ahmed, a knowledgeable Iraqi local guide, enriched the journey with fascinating insights and history. Ammar, Ahmed’s sidekick, was also friendly and did a fantastic job as a photographer.

The itinerary was well-planned, with transportation and accommodation being great. The group was diverse and friendly, and everyone got along well. Iraq is a beautiful country with a rich history, and despite the challenges and tumultuous events, the vibrant culture, welcoming locals, and well-organized tour made it an unforgettable experience. The author is currently booking their second trip with Rocky Road, and they highly recommend their services.

Is it safe to travel to Mosul, Iraq?

The US Department of State has terminated the Ordered Departure status for US Embassy Baghdad and Consulate General Erbil in Iraq, stating that the country faces high risks of terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and limited capacity of Mission Iraq to provide support to US citizens. The Travel Advisory level for Iraq remains at Level 4, advising US citizens not to travel to the country.

Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians, while anti-U. S. militias threaten US citizens and international companies. In an emergency, consular services to US citizens in Iraq are limited due to restrictions on government personnel’s movements.

Can I go to Iraq now?

The US State Department advises US citizens against traveling to Iraq due to concerns about terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to support US citizens. The advisory also includes information for LGBTQIA+ travelers and emergency services.

Is flying over Iraq safe?

Iraqi airspace, including the ORBB/Baghdad FIR, poses high risks to civil aircraft, with several countries warning against operating at lower flight levels. The primary risk is intentional targeting by terrorist organizations with portable anti-aircraft weaponry, and civilian aircraft may be misidentified by local and foreign military air defense systems. Drone attacks from Turkey and Iran are common in northern Iraq, posing a risk to ORSU and ORER airports.

Foreign aviation authorities allow overflights at higher flight levels, but there is a clear risk to civil aircraft operating throughout the FIR at all levels. A secondary risk is GPS spoofing, with reports of enroute aircraft being targeted with fake GPS signals, leading to complete navigation failures. This type of GPS spoofing has not been seen before, as IRS is quickly “infected” by false position.

What is the cleanest city in Iraq?

On June 28, 2024, the US AQI1 ranking for Iraq’s cleanest city was as Sulaymaniyah, located in Erbil, Arbil, and Baghdad.

Is Iraq safe in 2024?

The State Department has maintained a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Iraq due to concerns about terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to support U. S. citizens.

Can Westerners visit Iraq?

The FCDO advises against all travel to Iraq, except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), and all but essential travel to KRI, as it poses significant risks and is considered dangerous.