Türkiye warns citizens not to travel to Baghdad

Türkiye urged its citizens to postpone visits to the Iraqi capital Baghdad due to deadly clashes in the city, and are rapidly spreading across the country.

Issuing a travel alert for Iraq, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said: "Considering that the security situation in Baghdad has started to deteriorate, our citizens are advised to avoid traveling to the aforementioned city except for compulsory situations."

"It would be beneficial for our citizens currently in Iraq to stay away from places where mass demonstrations are held in Baghdad, to follow additional warnings and announcements made by our ministry and embassy in Baghdad, and to be vigilant for their personal safety," it added.

In a separate statement, the Foreign Ministry said Türkiye is "concerned" about the developments in "brotherly" Iraq.

The stability and security of friendly and brotherly Iraq are of vital importance for Türkiye, the ministry said.

"We hope that the current political conflicts will be resolved peacefully and through inclusive dialogue, and the peace and well-being of the Iraqi people will be ensured," it added.

At least 13 protesters were killed Monday after supporters of Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr stormed the Republican Palace, the seat of the Iraqi government in Baghdad, according to local media. More than 350 protesters were also injured in the unrest.