Iraq presents a complex safety picture with a significant gap between official government warnings and the reality experienced by travelers. While Western governments maintain Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisories, the actual situation on the ground is more nuanced. In 2024, 892,000 international tourists visited Iraq (a 25% increase from 2023), and Baghdad has been named the Arab Tourism Capital for 2025. Safety varies significantly by region: Kurdistan is considered very safe with 450,000 international tourists in 2024, Baghdad requires more awareness but is manageable with proper precautions, and the holy cities maintain high security. Travelers are advised to do thorough research, hire good guides, and not let fear or outdated information prevent experiencing Iraq's rich history and hospitality. For more: Iraq Safety: 2025 Travel Guide