In view of the deteriorating security situation in Iraq, Sri Lankan nationals are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution in travelling to Iraq, until further notice, the External Affairs Ministry said.

Ministry urges all Sri Lankans who are currently in Iraq to remain in contact with the Sri Lankan Embassy in Baghdad for necessary advice and updated information on the evolving security situation.

The contact details of the Embassy in Baghdad are +9647704847458 and slembirq@gmail.com

According to the foreign media reports Sunni extremist militants and the Iraqi military battle for control, the nation's Vice President issued a decree calling for parliament to meet Tuesday to start the process of creating a new government.

Thursday's directive from Vice President Khader al Khuzaei, acting on behalf of the President, came amid calls for political action to tackle the simmering sectarian tensions that have fueled the crisis.