Introduction
The United States Embassy in Baghdad is the diplomatic mission of the United States in Iraq. It was established in 2004 after the U.S. invasion of Iraq and serves as the primary diplomatic channel between the two countries. The embassy is located in the fortified Green Zone in central Baghdad and is one of the largest U.S. diplomatic missions in the world.
History
The history of the United States Embassy in Baghdad dates back to the early 20th century when the U.S. established a consulate in the city. However, the embassy was closed in 1967 following the Arab-Israeli War. It was not until 2004 that the embassy was reopened after the U.S. invasion of Iraq. The embassy has since played a crucial role in the diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Iraq.
Services
The United States Embassy in Baghdad provides a wide range of services to both U.S. citizens and Iraqi nationals. These services include visa applications, passport renewals, notary services, and emergency assistance. The embassy also serves as a hub for U.S. government agencies operating in Iraq, including the Department of Defense, the Department of State, and the Central Intelligence Agency.
Location
The United States Embassy in Baghdad is located in the Green Zone, a heavily fortified area in central Baghdad. The Green Zone is a 10-square kilometer area that houses several important Iraqi government buildings and foreign embassies. The embassy compound covers an area of approximately 104 acres and is surrounded by high concrete walls and watchtowers.
Security
The United States Embassy in Baghdad is one of the most heavily guarded diplomatic missions in the world. The embassy compound is surrounded by concrete barriers, blast walls, and watchtowers. It is also protected by a large number of U.S. Marines and private security contractors. Security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of embassy staff and visitors.
Controversies
The United States Embassy in Baghdad has been the center of several controversies over the years. In 2016, the embassy was criticized for spending millions of dollars on private security contractors. There have also been allegations of corruption and mismanagement at the embassy. Additionally, the embassy has been targeted by several terrorist attacks, including a mortar attack in 2020.
Conclusion
The United States Embassy in Baghdad plays a crucial role in the diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Iraq. The embassy provides a wide range of services to both U.S. citizens and Iraqi nationals and serves as a hub for U.S. government agencies operating in Iraq. Despite the controversies and security concerns, the embassy remains an important diplomatic mission for the United States.