Iraqi airspace closed, travel warning issued from Turkey

The Turkish Embassy in Baghdad has issued a warning to Turkish citizens regarding the security situation in Iraq. In a written statement released via social media, it was pointed out that security conditions in the country can change negatively in a short period of time.

The statement expressed that "in this period when security conditions can change rapidly in a negative direction, it is once again strongly advised to stay away from crowded squares and gathering areas, areas in Baghdad where protests are held around the Green Zone, Baghdad and Erbil international airports and their surrounding areas, venues frequently visited or occupied by third-country nationals, open areas considering the preventive interventions of air defense systems, residential areas in and around Mosul, areas adjacent to Basra, and critical infrastructure facilities such as military zones and oil fields throughout Iraq, and that Turkish citizens should pay maximum attention to their personal safety."

IRAQI AIRSPACE CLOSED UNTIL MARCH 16

The statement reminded that Iraqi airspace is closed to flights due to ongoing conflicts in the region. It was reported that under current circumstances, the airspace will remain closed until at least March 16.

It was stated that citizens wishing to return to Turkey during this period may prefer land routes, taking security conditions into account.

LAND TRANSPORTATION CONTINUES

Information was shared that land transportation between Turkey and Iraq continues and the Habur-Ibrahim Khalil Border Gate remains open. The statement indicated that due to current conditions, it would be appropriate for Turkish citizens to avoid traveling to Iraq unless there is an essential reason.

TRANSIT VISA FOR THIRD-COUNTRY NATIONALS

The statement also mentioned that Iraqi authorities have announced they will provide a 7-day transit visa option for third-country nationals at land border crossings.

In this context, it was stated that citizens located in other countries who wish to come to Turkey via Iraq can benefit from this practice.

The statement also shared information that in case of emergencies, Turkish diplomatic missions in Iraq and the Consular Call Center can be reached via the provided contact numbers.