Baghdad Kidnapping Ends: Shelly Kittleson Freed
Baghdad Kidnapping Ends: Shelly Kittleson Freed
An American journalist abducted in Baghdad by Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah has been released after a week in captivity, with officials confirming her freedom.
Freed American journalist Shelly Kittleson was abducted in Baghdad last week by members of Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Iraqi militia. She had entered the capital a few days before the kidnapping.
Officials said she was released in the afternoon, but no current whereabouts were disclosed. Kataib Hezbollah said the release came in appreciation of the outgoing prime minister's patriotic stances and added that the move would not be repeated.
U.S. and Iraqi officials confirmed her freedom, while reports noted the possibility that her release was tied to negotiations or a broader exchange involving militia members.
Kittleson's work as a freelance journalist focused on the Middle East has long exposed reporters to danger in conflict zones. The incident underscores the fragile security environment in Baghdad and the challenges facing independent reporters covering Iraq.
