Iraq Joins Venezuela, Russia, North Korea, Mexico, Iran, Myanmar In Urgent US Travel Warning As Entry Bans And Limited Assistance Trap Foreign Visitors

Thursday, June 12, 2025

The US has put out a special cautionary warning which identifies Iraq as one of seven countries, including Venezuela, Russia, North Korea, Mexico, Iran, and Myanmar, where entry restrictions, embassy closures, and almost zero consular aid leave American travelers in grave danger of being stranded without aid. The advisory points out that sudden visa revocations, refused departures, and unavailability of legal or medical aid indefinitely strand American citizens overseas with no safe means of return.

The U.S. government has released a sweeping new travel alert, placing Iraq alongside Venezuela, Russia, North Korea, Mexico, Iran, and Myanmar as countries Americans should not visit under any circumstance. This alert comes as geopolitical tensions, limited diplomatic presence, and rising unpredictability make these destinations increasingly dangerous for U.S. citizens abroad. Whether it’s an absence of consular support, collapsing infrastructure, or legal systems that arbitrarily target foreign visitors, these countries pose serious risks that travelers cannot afford to ignore.

Iraq Evacuates U.S. Staff as Regional Risks Spike

On June 11, the U.S. State Department directed all non-essential government staff to exit Iraq without delay. The decision reflects mounting fears over the worsening security situation across the country. Armed groups continue to act unchecked, and major urban centers have become increasingly hostile for foreign nationals. With only minimal resources on the ground, the U.S. government cannot reliably assist citizens who remain. Americans currently in Iraq are strongly advised to depart as soon as possible, while others are urged not to travel there under any circumstances.

Venezuela Remains Isolated with No U.S. Embassy and Widespread Instability

The U.S. has maintained no diplomatic presence in Venezuela since 2019, following the shutdown of its embassy in Caracas. As a result, American citizens have no access to consular support during emergencies. Daily life in Venezuela remains strained by ongoing shortages of fuel, electricity, essential medicines, and basic services. Allegations of serious human rights abuses continue, and foreign visitors, including Americans, often face unpredictable and unprotected situations. With no reliable legal or medical assistance available, U.S. travelers are strongly encouraged to leave the country and refrain from making any future travel plans to Venezuela.

Russia Tightens Restrictions and Cuts Off Financial Access

Russia continues to present a challenging environment for foreign visitors, particularly U.S. nationals. The war in Ukraine has intensified scrutiny at borders and airports. U.S. citizens report frequent questioning, monitoring of their electronic devices, and limitations on movement. Dual U.S.-Russian citizens face additional risks, including forced military service and restrictions on leaving the country. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow offers limited services, and all other consulates remain closed. In addition, U.S. credit and debit cards no longer function in Russia, making even basic financial transactions nearly impossible. Americans in Russia should make immediate plans to leave and avoid future travel until further notice.

North Korea Remains Off-Limits for U.S. Travelers

North Korea remains completely off-limits to American travelers. U.S. passports are not valid for entering, exiting, or even transiting through the country unless granted a rare and highly restricted special authorization. Such approvals are only issued in exceptional cases. Since the United States has no embassy or diplomatic presence in North Korea, detained Americans have no direct access to consular assistance. While Sweden represents U.S. interests there, its ability to intervene is often delayed or denied altogether. Simply entering border areas near North Korea can result in serious consequences. The U.S. strongly advises all citizens to avoid travel to this region under any circumstance.

Mexico Faces Regional Crime Surges and Mobility Restrictions

While millions of Americans travel to Mexico each year, the State Department continues to update regional advisories due to surging violent crime and limited emergency support. In many states, U.S. government employees face travel restrictions such as bans on night driving, rideshare limits, and avoidance of remote areas. The U.S. Embassy has warned travelers to stick to toll roads, avoid isolated regions, and remain cautious when visiting ATMs, bars, or crowded markets. While tourism continues in some areas, travelers must understand the risk level varies drastically by location. Americans should check local advisories before planning any trip to Mexico.

Myanmar Faces Armed Conflict and Infrastructure Breakdowns

Myanmar continues to grapple with armed conflict and deep instability since the military coup in 2021. Protests, violence, and unpredictable road closures disrupt daily life. The U.S. government prohibits its own personnel from traveling within the country without prior approval, reflecting how serious the risks have become. Explosions in cities like Yangon, sudden airport closures, and ongoing militia activity add layers of uncertainty for travelers. Additionally, job scams targeting foreigners have lured individuals into forced labor operations in conflict zones. The U.S. strongly discourages travel to Myanmar and advises citizens to exit the country while they still can.

Iran Introduces Entry Restrictions and Unpredictable Legal Risks

Travel to Iran remains highly risky for U.S. citizens, particularly for those holding dual U.S.-Iranian nationality. Sudden shifts in local policies have left travelers unable to enter or exit the country, with visas unexpectedly canceled or residency statuses changed without notice. With no official U.S. Embassy in Iran, only limited assistance is available through the Swiss Embassy, which cannot guarantee timely support. Americans traveling for medical procedures, surrogacy, or academic programs have reported being misled about legal protections, resulting in difficult and often immovable situations. The U.S. government strongly advises against any travel to Iran, regardless of reason or duration.

The US has put out a heightened alert for traveling in Iraq, Venezuela, Russia, North Korea, Mexico, Iran, and Myanmar, advising that entry restrictions, visa revocation, and denial of consular services are trapping American tourists without assistance.

A Clear Message: Avoid These Destinations at All Costs

The U.S. government’s travel advisory sends a direct message to citizens: Iraq, Venezuela, Russia, North Korea, Mexico, Iran, and Myanmar are not safe for American travelers in 2025. Whether it’s lack of embassy support, surveillance, infrastructure failures, or sudden changes in local law, these countries carry risks that can leave Americans stranded, isolated, or worse. For those currently in these regions, immediate departure is strongly recommended. For others, any travel plans involving these countries should be canceled.

In today’s unpredictable world, choosing safe, well-supported destinations has never mattered more.