2019 Crime & Safety Report: Erbil

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil, Iraq.

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Iraq at Level 4, indicating travelers should not travel to the country due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

The U.S. Consulate General in Erbil does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizens’ Services unit (ACS) cannot recommend a particular individual or location, and assumes no responsibility for the quality of service provided.

Review OSAC’s country-specific page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

In spite of internal political divisions and the threat from the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), the Iraqi Region (IKR) enjoys a strong relationship with the U.S., and the region remains relatively secure.

Crime Threats

There is minimal risk from crime in Erbil. Crime statistics and/or crime reporting mechanisms in the IKR are unreliable relative to U.S. crime-data collection methods. The IKR is emerging from an economic downturn and fiscal crisis that officials claimed had resulted in a moderate increase of crime. Informally, IKR officials have commented that property thefts and thefts from residences had risen in the past several years. To date, most of the crime is nonviolent, and criminals generally do not target Westerners and diplomats. Kurdish police and security services are out in adequate numbers, and visitors can move around urban areas in relative safety.

Since Consulate personnel must travel with a Protective Security Detail (PSD) due to terrorism threats, potential criminal actions against Consulate personnel are limited.

Individuals required to live or travel in Iraq should use an in-country security advisor or some type of PSD support to limit potential terrorist and criminal threats. Travelers to the IKR should consider using all available security assets to minimize any potential terrorist or criminal risks to include protective security or a local driver who knows routes, speaks the local language, and knows which areas may present a higher degree of risk. While traveling in the IKR, interpreters can answer basic questions, explain the purpose of your travel and negotiate with Kurdish security at checkpoints. Visitors are strongly discouraged from traveling alone. PSD personnel can be used to render assistance in the event of an emergency and call for additional police and security support. All travelers should carry a cell phone that has both calling and texting capability.

1 Cybersecurity Issues

No specific, ongoing cyber security threat exists in the region. However, terrorist groups and criminals have used the latest technology, social media, and the internet to recruit and further their cause. When managing personal accounts online, take routine precautions to prevent malware, spyware, malicious code, and phishing schemes from harming your computer or business network.

Other Areas of Concern

In 2017, the IKR held an independence referendum in an effort to engage the government of Iraq in peaceful dialogue for the people of the IKR to decide their future. The referendum’s results led to a rise in tensions with the Iraqi government, although relations improved over 2018.

In 2017, Iraqi forces reasserted control over , a disputed city and province that had come under IKR control in 2014 during the campaign against ISIS. The Kurdish defensive line has been static since then, but ISIS takes advantage of the 20km standoff between Iraqi forces and ’s armed forces () to operate. Additionally, when Iraqi Army units reclaimed in Ninewa Province during the anti-ISIS campaign, they were accompanied by predominantly Shi’a Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) along the Kurdish defensive line, placing them in conflict with Peshmerga units. PMF units currently active in areas from Kirkuk to Mosul have been known to kidnap and extort the local population, and some PMF groups and members harbor anti-American sentiment.

Transportation-Safety Situation

For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Road conditions throughout Iraq are reasonably good, and roads are generally well constructed. Urban and interstate roads are usually constructed of asphalt, while rural roads are typically hard- packed dirt/gravel. Most roads do not have an adequate shoulder for emergency stops. Most roads outside of urban centers are one lane in each direction. Vehicle security checkpoints and dense urban populations often result in significant traffic congestion. Drivers do not typically exhibit U.S. standard road etiquette or adhere to traffic laws/road markings. Expatriates and visitors who decide to drive should do so defensively. Drivers in the IKR can be aggressive and will routinely exceed posted speed limits, tailgate, and attempt reckless lane changes and passing. When on long trips, it is wise to carry water, a medical kit, appropriate seasonal clothing, and adequate cash in the event you have an accident requiring vehicle repair or urgent medical care. Record-heavy rainfall in November and December 2018 caused some damage to secondary roads and bridges.

2 Consider taking up-to-date maps, use a GPS navigation device, and call in-country contacts to give status checks (waypoints) while in transit. These periodic updates will assist in the event of a road mishap or a delayed arrival. Driving a serviceable vehicle reduces the possibility of a breakdown and subsequent hazards associated with being isolated on the road overnight. Kow the locations of Kurdish defensive lines, recently liberated areas, and disputed internal boundaries. Border areas between neighboring countries can be dangerous and often not clearly defined. Use established border crossings. For more information on self-driving, please review OSAC’s Report Driving Overseas: Best Practices.

Public Transportation Conditions

Poorly maintained city vehicles are frequently involved in accidents or breakdowns. Though city buses run regularly, their routes and stops change frequently and without notice. Long-distance buses are in poor condition, and often drive at speeds unsafe for road conditions.

Train and passenger rail infrastructure remains inadequate.

Taxis are plentiful and clearly marked, but it is best to call a reputable taxi company or private car service ahead of time from an apartment or a hotel front desk, rather than hailing a taxi from the street.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

Due to tensions following the Kurdish referendum vote, the government of Iraq closed the Erbil (EBL) and Sulaimaniya (ISU) International Airports from September 2017 through March 2018. By May 2018, most foreign carriers resumed regular flights to EBL. At the time of publication, many flights operating from Europe and the Middle East again arrive directly into the . Overall, airports in the IKR are clean, functional, secure and well maintained. The local security force (Asayish) controls the outer perimeter, gates, and access points around the airports. Airport screening of arriving vehicles, passengers, luggage, cargo, and identity documents is thorough. Modern security equipment and passenger screening protocols are in place. A 2018 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) report found physical, procedural, and technical security procedures at EBL to be on par with other international airports worldwide.

In 2017, the FAA issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) amending its prohibition on U.S. civil aviation operations in the FIR (ORBB) to allow overflights at or above FL 260. The coalition of Iraqi security forces, allied nations, and supporting militia elements has successfully reduced the area under ISIS control. In addition, the operational anti-aircraft-capable weapons possessed by ISIS or other anti-U.S. extremist/militant elements are altitude-limited and would not pose a risk to U.S. civil aviation overflights at or above FL 260, provided that the flights remain clear of areas where fighting is likely to occur or re-emerge.

With permission from the Iraqi government, the Turkish Air Force regularly carries out air strikes against members of the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK) in border regions between Iraqi Kurdistan, Turkey, and . The air strikes are an effort to weaken the PKK, which the international community considers a terrorist organization. Foreign carriers closely monitor the security situation in Erbil and are willing to suspend service with little or no notice if they perceive a risk to their aircraft.

3 Other Travel Conditions

Roadside improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are not common in the Kurdistan region, but smaller handheld explosives and unexploded ordnance (UXO) are present, especially in areas previously under ISIS control. Avoid unstable structures heavily damaged from ground fighting and airstrikes. Consulate personnel only travel using PSDs and in armored vehicles. Armored vehicles and local security teams are available in the IKR for hire on short and long-term contracts.

Terrorism Threat

Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns

There is serious risk from terrorism in Erbil. Although ISIS no longer holds physical territory, the group has shown resilience. Remaining ISIS elements have transitioned to recruitment, fundraising, and insurgency operations. ISIS maintains lethal capabilities and presents a serious threat almost anywhere along the 700 mile-long Peshmerga and Iraqi Army defensive line. Throughout Ninewa and Kirkuk provinces, ISIS frequently carries out asymmetric attacks, to include the use of vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs), ambushes, small unit infantry-style assaults, and assassinations. Terrorists often target Iraqi and Western civilians, Iraqi security forces, Kurdistan regional security forces, the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).

Although on the defensive, ISIS still remains capable and extremely dangerous. Recent reporting indicates that ISIS maintains sleeper cells in the western portion of Mosul. ISIS remnants constitute a threat to Westerners operating in or traversing Mosul and traveling west toward and Sinjar. In July 2018, three Erbil-based ISIS militants attacked and occupied Erbil's governorate building, holding hostages and killing one civilian employee during a five-hour standoff. IKR security forces killed all three attackers at the scene. Authorities arrested an Erbil- based imam in connection to the attack; he later declared his allegiance to ISIS and confessed to planning the attack and recruiting the three teenage gunmen. In October 2018, Kurdish counterterrorism forces arrested several ISIS financiers in a series of raids in Erbil, lending credence to the continued presence and ongoing threats presented by ISIS within the city.

In 2018, Turkish air strikes continued against Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK) elements in the northern IKR. PKK-affiliated groups maintain a presence in the Sinjar region, creating a destabilizing effect and increasing the risk of armed conflict.

The KRG devotes considerable resources to protect its key government buildings, vital infrastructure, the diplomatic community, and soft targets such as hotels, churches, mosques, and shopping areas. Insurgents continue to carry out effective small- and large-scale attacks throughout Iraq that cause casualties, hinder the freedom of movement for citizens, and influence public opinion. Through 2018, Kurdish security agencies arrested members of ISIS terrorist cells planning attacks in Erbil and the IKR.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

While anti-U.S. sentiment occurs throughout parts of southern Iraq, generally have a favorable view of the U.S. citizens and other Westerners, despite some protests and social media expressing anger with U.S. foreign policy. The KRG prioritizes the safety of U.S. citizens and other Westerners.

4 Attacks and serious security incidents have occurred in the southern Iraqi provinces of Anbar, Baghdad, Salahaddin, and Ninewa on a far more frequent basis than in the IKR. However, the threat of attacks in the IKR remains a concern. The heavy presence of the Peshmerga on Kurdish defensive lines has been a stabilizing force, especially when working in tandem with Coalition air power and U.S. advise/assist efforts. This combination has undoubtedly prevented significant acts of terrorism in Erbil and other major urbans areas in the IKR. In 2018, there were no serious attacks against U.S. citizens or other Westerners in the IKR.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

The IKR held regional legislative elections in September 2018. The elections proceeded without major incidents or violence, despite largely unfounded allegations of voter fraud and poll worker intimidation. As of the date of this report’s publication, the Kurdistan Regional Government had not yet completed its formation process, as political parties negotiated over positions and the incoming government’s program.

Civil Unrest

There is serious risk from civil unrest in Erbil. Religious and political rallies attract hundreds, and occasionally thousands of participants. Protests are typically peaceful, require a permit, and are heavily monitored by Kurdish police and security services. Demonstrations have been a consequence of the fallout of the referendum vote and perceived lack of support from the international community. Five major political parties operate in the IKR, with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), and the Change Movement (Gorran) taking the leading shares of voters. The KDP’s political influence focuses primarily in the IKR provinces of Erbil and , while the PUK is strong in Sulaimaniya and , as well as in Kirkuk.

In November 2018, dozens of protesters assembled near the U.S. Consulate to condemn the U.S. government’s decision to offer rewards for information leading to the identification or location of three senior members of the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK).

Religious/Ethnic Violence

ISIS denied religious freedom and persecuted minority groups across the territory it held. The KRG has sought to reduce inter-religious tensions and control clashes between ethnic groups. The possibility of attacks and incidents rises around religious and civic holidays and dates of historical significance. While the IKR has become host to almost two million internally displaced persons and Syrian refugees, the provinces of Erbil, Duhok, and Sulaimaniya have not experienced serious religious or ethnic strife. In general, Iraqi Kurds are widely viewed as tolerant, accepting, and generous to all groups persecuted and displaced by ISIS.

5 Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

Iraq and the Kurdish environment can be harsh. Temperatures can fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and often exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. Dust storms, which can reduce visibility and impede aircraft, occur frequently during the spring. Heavy fog, often lasting for hours, is common during the winter. Winter snow typically falls in areas of higher elevation, closing roads until warmer temperatures return. By U.S. or Western standards, the IKR lacks road treatment and clearing equipment sufficient to mitigate hazards associated with snow and ice on roadways. This is especially true outside major urban centers.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

The battle against ISIS has taken a toll on Iraq’s critical infrastructure, including the nation’s oil reserves and industrial infrastructure, refineries, power plants, and, most recently, the hydraulic power system. Power failures occur frequently, and almost all homes and businesses rely on backup generators. Power outages increase during the summer months.

There has been considerable attention given to the status of the Mosul Dam. There are ongoing, international, Italian-led efforts to improve its structural integrity and reinforce the porous ground beneath it. While strengthening efforts continues, the integrity of the structure remains a concern. If the dam fails, it is estimated flood waters would cover the floodplain and reach as far south as Baghdad. All essential/life support services would be impacted. All U.S. citizens and private-sector organizations should develop contingency plans to relocate their personnel quickly if the dam fails.

Economic Concerns

Economic espionage and intellectual property theft are on the rise worldwide. Because these events are often unreported, it is difficult to identify victims and business sectors impacted or offenders. In general, the threat of economic espionage and intellectual property theft is not endemic to the IKR.

Privacy Concerns

The growth of internet usage has raised concerns about privacy. Individuals visiting or working in Iraq should be careful with the information they share online, to include posting strongly worded or divisive comments critical of any political party or agency in the IKR.

Drug-related Crimes

Crime statistics and/or crime reporting mechanisms in the IKR are unreliable. Informally, Kurdish authorities comment that drug use and cross border drug trafficking are becoming a more serious concerns. Most drug possession in the IKR is for personal use, however, rather than for large- scale sales, distribution, or cross-border trafficking. Kurdish airport and border control agencies have drug detecting technology.

6 Kidnapping Threat

U.S. citizens in Iraq remain at high risk for kidnapping and terrorist violence. In 2018, the threat of violence in the IKR continued with the presence of ISIS near Kurdish areas. U.S. citizens who choose to visit or reside in Iraq despite the travel advisory must take responsibility for their own personal security and belongings. Until the security situation significantly improves, the threat of kidnapping/hostage-taking, unlawful detention, and isolation remain a serious concern for all visitors. For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, Kidnapping: The Basics.

Police Response

IKR police and military units have the ability to respond quickly to security incidents, terrorist attacks, and criminal activities. IKR police and security services have sufficient training and command and control to direct their officers where required, and are equipped with modern weapons and security equipment. Specialized units, such as tactical response and explosive ordinance disposal teams, have enhanced training and equipment. IKR police and security services are professional and highly responsive to diplomats, U.S. citizens, and other Westerners.

While the IKR may issue “Kurdish visas,” the government of Iraq strictly enforces requirements regarding visas and stamps for entry/exit, residency cards, vehicle registration, authorizations for weapons, and movements through checkpoints. Kurdish visas are only recognized in the IKR and are NOT recognized in other parts of Iraq. Visitors must have an Iraqi visa for travel into Iraqi areas outside of the IKR. All non-diplomatic passport holders must obtain a residency permit if they intend to stay in the IKR for more than 15 days.

Small, personal-use drones have been weaponized by ISIS. ISIS used drones to conduct pre- attack reconnaissance and drop small explosive charges on Coalition forces. The use of drones by anyone other than Kurdish security agencies or approved Coalition forces will initiate a rapid and aggressive response from Kurdish police and security services. Persons using drones without prior approval face detention, arrest, and deportation. Drones will be confiscated and not returned. Drones discovered in checked or carry-on baggage upon arrival into the IKR will be confiscated, and the traveler risks possible detention and/or denied entry into the IKR.

Carry proper identification to avoid undue questioning and delays at checkpoints or if you encounter police. Make several copies of passports and other vital identity documents.

Unauthorized photography, especially of IKR security forces and checkpoints, is strictly prohibited. IKR military personnel may confiscate equipment and temporarily detain individuals taking unauthorized photographs or asking probing questions to IKR police and security officials. For more information, review OSAC’s Report Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment

Cooperate and follow instructions fully if approached by IKR security personnel. Police harassment of Americans is rare; detained Americans should follow the instructions of host-nation security and be compliant and respectful.

7 Crime Victim Assistance

The ability of the Consulate General to assist U.S. citizens facing difficulty, including arrest, is extremely limited. Many services that once existed (e.g. U.S. military-provided medical evacuations, transportation, convoy support, lodging, quick reaction forces, and personal security details) are no longer available through the Consulate. U.S. citizens who choose to visit or reside in Iraq despite the travel advisory must take responsibility for their own personal security and belongings.

Victims of crime should notify the U.S. Consulate by contacting the American Citizen Services via e-mail at [email protected] or via phone at 066-211-4554 (from Iraq) or 240-264-3467 ext. 4554 (from the U.S.) during regular business hours. For after-hours emergencies (including weekends and holidays), please call 066-211-4000 (from Iraq) or 240-264-3467 (from the U.S.).

For local first responders, refer to the Consulate’s Emergency Assistance page.

Medical Emergencies

Many IKR hospitals and emergency medical services do not meet U.S. standards. Although a few hospitals and dental clinics subscribe to a Western standard of care, local hospitals typically have substandard staffing, equipment, and may not carry specialized medicines. Individuals associated with private businesses operating in the IKR are responsible for arranging their own medical care. IKR hospitals should be utilized only as a contingency for urgent life or death emergencies.

Contact Information for Available Hospitals/Clinics

For medical assistance, please refer to the Consulate’s Medical Assistance page.

Available Air Ambulance Services

For medical evacuation services, please refer to the Consulate’s Medical Assistance page.

Insurance Guidance

Secure private medical evacuation insurance and have enough cash on hand to pay for urgent medical treatment. Hospitals, out-patient care, and diagnostic support services, such as imaging or other medical specialists, require cash payment. Hospitals will not accept insurance, credit cards, or promissory notes.

Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Iraq.

OSAC Country Council Information

The Country Council in Erbil meets quarterly. For additional information on the Erbil Country Council, please visit OSAC’s Erbil Country Council page. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Middle East & North Africa team with any questions.

8 U.S. Consulate Location and Contact Information

Consulate Address and Hours of Operation

The U.S. Consulate is located in the neighborhood of Erbil City, in close proximity to the Erbil International Airport. It is open Sunday-Thursday, from 0800 to 1700.

U.S. Consulate General in Erbil: 413 Ishtar, Ankawa, Erbil

Consulate Contact Numbers

If you have an emergency, phone the Consulate at:

During business hours:  From Iraq: 066-211-4554  From the U.S.: 240-264-3467 extension 4554

After-hours emergencies and on weekends:  From Iraq: 066-211-4000 and ask to speak with the Duty Officer  From the U.S.: 240-264-3467 and ask to speak with the Duty Officer

Website: https://iq.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/erbil/

Nearby Posts

Embassy Baghdad: https://iq.usembassy.gov/

In October 2018, the Department of State ordered the temporary suspension of operations at the U.S. Consulate General in Basrah.

Consulate Guidance

U.S. citizens traveling to Iraq should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to ensure they receive pertinent security updates and notices. It is also recommended that travelers consult the Country Specific Information and the Travel Advisory for Iraq.

Additional Resources

Iraq Country Information Sheet

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