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Shelly Kittleson Kidnapped: US Journalist Abducted in Baghdad

American journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad on Tuesday, leading to a manhunt by Iraqi security forces. A suspect linked to the Iranian-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah has been detained, and the US government, which had warned Kittleson of threats from this group, is collaborating with Iraq for her release. Her employer, Al-Monitor, has demanded her immediate and safe freedom. The US Embassy continues to advise citizens to avoid Iraq due to militia risks. This incident highlights the persistent dangers for journalists in conflict zones amid US-Iran tensions.

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Shelly Kittleson Kidnapped: US Journalist Abducted in Baghdad

Shelly Kittleson, an American journalist specializing in the Middle East, was kidnapped in central Baghdad on Tuesday, prompting a joint US-Iraqi effort to secure her release.

Incident Details

  • Kittleson was abducted on Tuesday evening in central Baghdad by unknown individuals, as confirmed by Iraq's Ministry of Interior.
  • Iraqi security forces have launched an operation to track down the kidnappers and ensure her release.

US Government Response

  • The US government is monitoring the situation and coordinating with Iraqi authorities.
  • US Assistant Secretary of State Dylan Johnson confirmed that an individual with ties to Kataib Hezbollah, an Iranian-aligned militia, has been taken into custody by Iraqi authorities in connection with the kidnapping.
  • The US had previously warned Kittleson of specific threats from Kataib Hezbollah, including kidnapping plots, while she was reporting in Iraq.
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Journalist Background

  • Kittleson is a contributor for Al-Monitor and has published work in international, US, and Italian media outlets.
  • Her expertise focuses on the Middle East and Afghanistan.

Al-Monitor's Statement

  • The news organization expressed deep alarm and called for Kittleson's "safe and immediate release."
  • Al-Monitor reaffirmed support for her vital reporting and urged her swift return to continue her work.

Security Warnings

  • The US Embassy in Iraq has repeatedly warned US citizens to leave the country due to threats from Iranian-backed militias.
  • The latest advisory states: "Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Depart immediately if you are there."

Ongoing Investigation

  • Sources indicate that US and Iraqi officials had been tracking threats against Kittleson from an Iranian proxy, including abduction risks, and had advised her to leave Iraq multiple times in recent weeks.
  • The State Department emphasized its duty to warn and commitment to coordinating with the FBI for her release.
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