Iraq Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Iraq
Iraq recorded 9.5 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2013, a rate that is high by global standards. That places Iraq #42 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Asia average of 2.0 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have fallen 40% over the past decade (from 15.9 in 2008). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Iraq at Level 4 of 4: Do Not Travel.
Homicide Rate
9.5 /100k
Safety Rank
#154 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 4 of 4
Data Year
2013
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2013)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 40% over the past decade (from 15.9 in 2008). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Iraq Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Iraq, the homicide rate for men is 5.2× higher than the rate for women — 15.9 vs 3.1 per 100,000 (2013).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Armed Conflict Context
Iraq has recorded battle-related deaths in recent years. Conflict deaths are counted separately from homicides — a country can have a moderate crime rate but significant conflict risk, and travel advisories weigh both.
Battle-Related Deaths
396(2024)
Military Spending
2.4% GDP(2024)
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Iraq:
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations. Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the U.S. government's limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq. Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Leave now if you are there. Advisory Summary On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees to leave Iraq due to security concerns. U.S.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Iraq
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated April 24, 2025).
Terrorism
Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack American citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets. High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria—also known as ISIS, ISIL or Da’esh—is a designated terrorist organization active in Syria and Iraq. ISIS and its associated terrorist groups indiscriminately commit attacks and violent atrocities in Iraq despite improved Iraqi government control.
Crime
Carjacking is common, even during daylight hours, and particularly on the highways from Jordan and Kuwait to Baghdad. Kidnappings of foreign nationals, Iraqi citizens, and dual U.S.-Iraqi citizens can occur for ransom or political/religious reasons. Many hostages have been killed. The murder rate remains high due to terrorism, tribal and family disputes, and religious/sectarian tensions. Sexual assault and domestic violence are common. Petty theft is common in Iraq, including pickpocketing and theft of valuables from hotel rooms and private residences.
Demonstrations
occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Past demonstrations have turned violent. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Scams
Internet romance and financial scam are prevalent in Iraq. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.
Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.
Victims of Crime
U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact U.S. Embassy Baghdad or U.S. Consulate General Erbil for assistance. Report crimes, fires, and accidents to local authorities by dialing: 104 for police 115 for fire 112 for the national emergency hotline 139 for sexual assault or domestic violence Contact the U.S. Embassy at +964-760-030-3000. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care. Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
The tourism industry is not well regulated. Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. Dangerous areas/activities are not always labeled properly. Staff may not be trained or certified by the host government or recognized authorities. If you get injured, you will likely only find appropriate medical treatment in or near major cities. First responders cannot reach areas outside major cities to provide urgent medical care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Iraq Population & Demographics
Population of 46,042,015, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iraq safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Iraq at Level 4 of 4 (Do Not Travel). The homicide rate of 9.5 per 100,000 is high by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Iraq?
Iraq has an intentional homicide rate of 9.5 per 100,000 people (2013, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #42 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Iraq?
Iraq is currently at Level 4: Do Not Travel. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Iraq compare to other countries?
Iraq's homicide rate of 9.5 per 100,000 is above the world average of 5.2 and above the Asia average of 2.0.