US freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson, recognized for her coverage of conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, was abducted in Baghdad on Tuesday evening. Iraqi and US officials confirmed the incident, with local authorities identifying one of the suspected kidnappers as a member of the Iran-backed militia group Kataib Hezbollah.
Following the abduction, the Iraqi Interior Ministry reported that security forces immediately launched a pursuit. This chase resulted in one of the kidnappers’ vehicles overturning and the arrest of a suspect. Operations continue to locate the remaining kidnappers and secure Kittleson’s release, with authorities emphasizing that all involved will face legal consequences.
In a significant development, US and Iraqi officials are coordinating efforts to ensure her safe return. A US State Department official acknowledged the abduction and noted that Kittleson had previously received warnings about threats from Iran-backed paramilitary groups. Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson stated that the department is working closely with the FBI and Iraqi authorities in response to the situation. Kittleson’s emergency contact, CNN analyst Alex Plitsas, revealed that she had been listed as a target by militias, though she initially doubted the credibility of these threats.
Reports indicate that Kittleson was taken near a hotel in central Baghdad. Her career, based in Rome, includes contributions to various international publications. The response involves multiple security agencies, including the FBI, National Security Council, Delta Force, and Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service.
Baghdad, once infamous for frequent kidnappings, has experienced a decline in such incidents in recent years. However, this abduction has reignited concerns about the safety of journalists operating in the capital.
