Baghdad, June 16 -- The US Embassy in Baghdad on Sunday (local time) issued a security alert for American citizens in Iraq due to increased potential for foreign terrorist organisation-inspired violence or attacks against US businesses and locations frequented by its citizens.

The embassy urged US citizens to avoid travel to Iraq for any reason.

"We urge all U.S. citizens in Iraq to avoid locations frequented by foreigners and any large gatherings or crowds. We will continue to assess the situation and provide additional information as needed," the statement said.

"The Travel Advisory for Iraq remains Level 4: Do Not Travel. US citizens should not travel to Iraq for any reason. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to ...