Shelly Kittleson Freed: U.S. Journalist Released After Iraq Kidnapping

Wed Apr 08 2026 12:19:16 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

U.S. freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson has been released after being kidnapped in Baghdad, marking a significant development in the ongoing struggle for journalist safety in regions affected by conflict.

Shelly Kittleson, a U.S. freelance journalist, has been released after a week of captivity in Baghdad. Her kidnapping on March 31, believed to be orchestrated by the Iran-backed militia group Kataib Hezbollah, drew attention to the risks faced by journalists in Iraq. The U.S. government played a role in her release, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirming the situation. Kittleson's friend indicated there might be a statement from her captors regarding her activities in Iraq.

A US freelance journalist who was kidnapped in the Iraqi capital Baghdad a week ago has been released, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Iran-backed militia group Kataib Hezbollah said earlier on Tuesday that it would release Shelly Kittleson, who was taken on 31 March, on the condition that she leave Iraq immediately.

Rubio stated that the release reflects the Trump Administration's steadfast commitment to the safety and security of American citizens, no matter where they are in the world. He thanked Iraqi officials for their assistance in securing her release and mentioned that the US is now working to support her safe departure from Iraq.

At the time of the 49-year-old's abduction, the Iraqi government said security forces had pursued the suspects, leading to one of the kidnappers' cars overturning and the arrest of one individual.

In response to the kidnapping, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani had ordered security forces to pursue those responsible for abducting foreigners.

Separately, a group member claimed they would release a recording showing Kittleson's role and activities in Iraq, but did not provide further details.

The abduction came amid increasing attacks by Iran and its allied Iraqi Shia militias on US-associated targets across Iraq and the region following the escalation of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

Kittleson's friend and emergency contact, CNN national security analyst Alex Plitsas, said he had seen the alleged statement about her release but added we have no official confirmation from the United States government that this is true.

It was understood that US officials had contacted Kittleson previously to warn her about threats against her safety.

Plitsas mentioned that Kittleson was informed her name was on a list held by Kataib Hezbollah, which was reportedly looking to kidnap or harm female journalists.

Kittleson, based in Rome, Italy, has extensive experience covering conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria and has contributed to various publications.

The US State Department continues to advise against travel to Iraq due to safety concerns.