American and Iraqi officials confirmed on Tuesday that American journalist Shelley Kittelson has been released after being kidnapped in Iraq by the Iranian-backed Kataib Hezbollah militia. Her release comes after coordinated efforts involving Iraqi authorities and US agencies, including the State Department and the FBI.Kittleson, who was kidnapped in Baghdad in late March, was released after about a week in captivity. Officials said efforts are now underway to ensure her safe exit from Iraq, as the militia reportedly asked her to leave the country after her release.
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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed this development and acknowledged the role of various institutions in securing their freedom. “The US State Department expresses its appreciation to the FBI, the Department of War, US personnel across multiple agencies, the Iraqi Supreme Judicial Council, and our Iraqi partners for their assistance in securing her release,” Rubio said in a statement on Ex.Rubio added: “We feel relieved that this American is now free and we are working to support her safe exit from Iraq.”
It is believed that her release is part of broader arrangements involving the Iraqi authorities and the militia. Officials noted that pressure from Iraqi leaders and potential concessions, including the release of detained militia members, played a role in securing her freedom.Kataib Hezbollah described the release as a gesture linked to the outgoing Iraqi prime minister, while stressing that it was a one-time decision.
The Iran-aligned group had previously participated in attacks against American interests in the region.Kittleson, a veteran freelance journalist known for reporting from conflict zones across the Middle East, was kidnapped on March 31 in Baghdad after gunmen accosted her on a city street. Her kidnapping sparked international concern and highlighted the risks faced by journalists working in troubled areas.The incident occurred amid escalating regional tensions involving Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. Press freedom organizations and officials welcomed her release, while reiterating concerns about the safety of journalists working in conflict areas.