Formerly part of the Ottoman Empire, Iraq was occupied by Britain during the course of World War I, and in 1920, was declared a League of Nations mandate under UK administration. In what occurred in stages over the next dozen years, Iraq attained its independence as a kingdom in 1932. A “republic” was proclaimed in 1958, but in actuality a series of dictators ruled the country until 2003—the last was Saddam Husayn. Territorial disputes with Iran led to an inconclusive and costly eight-year war (1980-88). In August 1990, Iraq seized Kuwait, but was expelled by US-led UN coalition forces during the Gulf War of January-February 1991. Following Kuwait’s liberation, the UN Security Council (UNSC) required that Iraq scrap all long-range missiles and weapons of mass destruction, and that the country allow UN verification inspections. Over a period of 12 years, continued Iraqi noncompliance with UNSC resolutions led to the US-led invasion of Iraq in March 2003, and the ouster of the Saddam Husayn regime. US forces remained in Iraq under a UNSC mandate through 2009, and under a bilateral security agreement thereafter, helping to provide security and to train and mentor Iraqi security forces. In October 2005, Iraqis approved a constitution in a national referendum and, pursuant to this document, elected a 275-member Council of Representatives (CoR) in December 2005. After the election, Ibrahim al-Jaafari was selected as prime minister, and was replaced by Nuri al-Maliki in May 2006. The CoR approved most cabinet ministers in May 2006, marking the transition towards Iraq’s first constitutional government in nearly a half century. On January 31, 2009, Iraq held elections for provincial councils in all provinces except Ta’mim (Kirkuk) province and those comprising the Kurdistan Regional Government.

Immunizations: Contact your physician or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication, and advise you on the precautions to take to avoid getting sick.

Travel Insurance: Ingle International provides comprehensive travel insurance for adventure travelers who wish to cover themselves in preparation the unexpected.

Entry/Exit Requirements: To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting.

Medical facilities in Iraq are scarce and below western standards. Travelers should bring their own medical supplies, including a first aid kit, and should make sure to include a sufficient amount of their prescription medications (in their original containers).
Consumption of untreated water and water-based foods greatly increases chance of illness. Do not drink tap water. Travelers should drink bottled water only, peel all fruits and vegetables, and avoid undercooked meat, dairy products, and most foods sold in the streets.

Avoid All Travel

The decision to travel to a dangerous location is the sole responsibility of the traveler. Travelers are responsible for their own personal safety.

Checkpoints

Security checkpoints have proliferated in Baghdad and other parts of Iraq. Due to heightened tensions at security checkpoints, extra respect and cooperation should be exercised. It is not guaranteed that an individual wearing an Iraqi police or army uniform is operating in an official capacity. This warning is particularly important at ad hoc checkpoints, where murders, kidnappings, and robberies frequently occur.
Travelers should carry photo ID, as well as legally certified copies of visa and registration documents on their person at all times. Furthermore, passports and visas should be held in a secure location.

Threat to Foreigners

Except in the Kurdistan region, the threat to foreigners is very high. More than 200 foreigners, including journalists, humanitarian workers, contractors, and soldiers, have been abducted since 2005. Many of the hostages have been killed, or are still missing.

Crime

Crime and corruption are rampant. Carjackings and robberies are common. The security situation deteriorates after nightfall in most areas. Violent conflicts involving organized criminal elements, street gangs, militant groups, rival militias, and Coalition/Iraqi security forces pose grave dangers.

Demonstrations

International and/or national events may trigger demonstrations. Travelers are advised to avoid all political gatherings, crowds, and demonstrations, and to stay away from areas where they may take place. Demonstrations can turn violent without warning.
 

Telecommunications

Telecommunications facilities are very poor and, in some areas, nonexistent. Telephone calls may be made from hotels, restaurants, and shops. There are no public phones. The use of mobile phones is widespread in major cities, though network service is often intermittent.