U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed on Tuesday that American journalist Shelly Kittleson, kidnapped in Iraq last month, has been released by the pro-Iran militia Kataib Hezbollah.
Background on Kidnapping
Shelly Kittleson, a journalist specializing in Middle East coverage, was captured by Kataib Hezbollah, a militia supported by Iran, in Iraq last month. According to reports, the U.S. government had warned Kittleson about a potential plot by the group to kidnap or kill her shortly before her disappearance, while she was reporting in Iraq.
Liberation Details
Kataib Hezbollah announced her release on Tuesday via Telegram, stating the condition that she must leave Iraq immediately. The Iraqi government received Kittleson and is managing arrangements for her departure, with authorities making extensive efforts to ensure her security.
Government and International Response
Secretary Rubio expressed gratitude in a post on X, thanking:
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation
- The Department of Defense
- U.S. personnel from multiple agencies
- The Supreme Judicial Council of Iraq
- Iraqi partners
He added, "We are relieved that this U.S. citizen is now free and are working to support her safe departure from Iraq."
A U.S. official confirmed that the U.S. government was monitoring the case and collaborating with Iraqi authorities for her release. The Iraqi government played a central role in receiving Kittleson, ensuring security, and leading the search operation.
Security Warnings and Context
The U.S. Embassy in Iraq has repeatedly warned American citizens to leave the country due to the risk of kidnapping by Iran-backed militias since the conflict with Iran began in late February. The latest advisory stated: "Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Leave immediately if you are there."
Press Freedom Concerns
Media organizations, including Al-Monitor for which Kittleson contributes, called for her safe and immediate release, stating, "We support her vital coverage in the region and request her prompt return to continue her important work." Press freedom groups such as Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), and the Foley Foundation sent a joint letter to Rubio urging action. CPJ's regional director, Sara Qudah, said, "The daylight kidnapping of Shelly Kittleson reflects an alarming breach of journalist safety in Iraq, highlighting the growing risks of reporting from the Middle East."
This story has been updated with new developments.
