ANKARA
Turkish citizens have been warned by Turkey's foreign ministry not to travel to Iraq as the security situation has deteriorated in the country and remains unpredictable.
Unrest in Iraq is running high as Islamic State of Iraq and Levant militants have seized two new towns after taking control of Mosul, Iraq's second largest city, threatening to move south towards capital Baghdad.
ISIL militants also abducted 49 Turkish consulate staff members, including the consul-general and family members in the Iraqi city of Mosul.
A statement released by the Turkish foreign ministry recommended that Turkish citizens leave Mosul, Kirkuk, Salahuddin, Diyala, Anbar and Baghdad provinces within the shortest possible time and avoid travel to these towns.
In case of an emergency, people can call +90 312 292 29 29 and +90 312 292 29 50.
www.aa.com.tr/en
