Baghdad: American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been released after being kidnapped in Baghdad last week by the Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the release on X, stating that multiple US agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Defense, worked with Iraqi authorities to secure her freedom. Rubio emphasized that the release underscores the US commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
Kittleson, a freelance contributor to Al-Monitor, was abducted on March 31 near her hotel on al-Saadoun Street. Video footage showed masked men forcing her into a car before fleeing. US officials had previously warned her of security risks in the region.
Kataib Hezbollah had initially demanded a prisoner swap, seeking the release of four members detained by Iraqi authorities for firing rockets in Syria. While the exact terms of Kittleson’s release remain unclear, the militia confirmed she would be freed on the condition that she leave Iraq immediately.
Rubio noted, “We are relieved that this American is now free and is working to support her safe departure from Iraq.” The rescue reflects close cooperation between US and Iraqi agencies amid heightened Iran-US tensions in the region.
I am pleased to announce the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was recently kidnapped by members of the foreign terrorist organization Kata’ib Hizballah near Baghdad, Iraq.
The U.S. Department of State extends its appreciation to the Federal Bureau of…
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) April 8, 2026
