12 Countries to Avoid on Your Travel Bucket List in 2025 (4 of 7)

6. Iraq

Although it is far more peaceful in Iraq than it was in the aftermath of the 2003 US invasion, it nonetheless remains a high-risk travel destination due to ongoing security threats, including sectarian violence and political strife. Frequent attacks, kidnappings, and civil unrest make a holiday in Iraq far more trouble than it’s worth.

7. Belarus

Belarus presents significant travel risks in 2025 due to severe political repression, government surveillance, and strained international relations. Protests, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on free speech make it an unpredictable destination. Additionally, Belarus has been subjected to strict sanctions—including being cut off from Western payment systems—as a result of its role in Russia’s cruel, unjust invasion of Ukraine.