US journalist Shelly Kittleson kidnapped in Baghdad, militia link reported

US freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson, known for covering conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, was kidnapped in Baghdad on Tuesday evening, Iraqi and US officials confirmed. Local authorities said one of the suspected abductors is affiliated with the Iran-backed militia group Kataib Hezbollah.

According to the Iraqi Interior Ministry, security forces launched an immediate pursuit after Kittleson’s abduction. The chase led to one of the kidnappers’ vehicles overturning and the arrest of a suspect. The ministry stated that operations are ongoing to track down the remaining perpetrators and secure her release, emphasizing that legal action will be taken against all involved.

US and Iraqi authorities mobilise for her release

A US State Department official confirmed the abduction and said Kittleson had previously been warned of threats, including from Iran-backed paramilitary groups. Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said the department is coordinating with the FBI and Iraqi authorities to ensure her safe return. Kittleson’s emergency contact, CNN analyst Alex Plitsas, noted that she had been on a militia threat list, though she initially believed the information was inaccurate.

Al-Monitor reported that Kittleson was taken near a hotel in central Baghdad. Her Rome-based reporting career includes contributions to multiple international publications. Security agencies involved in the response include the FBI, National Security Council, Delta Force, and Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service. Baghdad, once notorious for kidnappings, has seen a decline in abductions in recent years, but this case has reignited concerns over journalist safety in the capital.