Release of Abducted American Journalist Announced
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the release of Shelley Kittleson, an American freelance journalist who was kidnapped by the Iranian-backed militia, Kataib Hezbollah, in Baghdad, Iraq.
In a post on X, Rubio expressed gratitude toward the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of the Army, and Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council for their roles in ensuring Kittleson’s freedom. “This resolution reflects the Trump Administration’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the American people,” he stated.
“I am pleased to announce the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was recently kidnapped near Baghdad, Iraq, by members of the foreign terrorist organization Kataib Hezbollah,” Rubio shared.
He emphasized that the Trump administration will not tolerate the unlawful detention and kidnapping of Americans. “We will continue to use every means possible to bring Americans home and hold those responsible accountable,” he added.
Rubio’s announcement follows a confirmation from the Iraqi Interior Ministry about the kidnapping, although Kittleson’s identity was not disclosed at that time, according to reports.
Video footage of the kidnapping shows two men confronting Kittleson and forcing her into a car. The Iraqi interior ministry confirmed the abduction on Tuesday but did not reveal details about the victim’s identity. However, sources later informed The Associated Press that the victim was a female American.
Surveillance footage circulating on social media depicts the two men confronting Kittleson on a street in central Baghdad before struggling to put her into a vehicle. Iraqi security officials reported that the abductors escaped in two cars, one of which crashed during a pursuit near al-Haswa, south of Baghdad. The victim managed to evade capture by switching to another vehicle.
Kataib Hezbollah stated that Kittleson’s release came with the condition of “immediate deportation,” as reported. Two officials from the militia indicated that in exchange for her freedom, they expect the release of militia members currently held by Iraqi authorities.
