An American journalist has been kidnapped in Baghdad, prompting a large-scale search operation by Iraqi security forces, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The journalist has been identified as freelancer Shelly Kittleson, who has reported extensively from the region. Iraqi authorities said she was abducted from central Baghdad, with security forces quickly launching a pursuit of the suspects.
According to officials, the kidnappers used two vehicles during the operation. One of the cars reportedly crashed near Al-Haswa in Babil province, after which the journalist was transferred to another vehicle that fled the scene. Iraqi forces managed to intercept one vehicle, arrest a suspect, and seize evidence, but other perpetrators remain at large.
A U.S. official has blamed the Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah for the abduction, though Iraqi authorities have not officially confirmed the group’s involvement. The kidnapping reportedly took place on Saadoun Street, a busy area in central Baghdad, triggering immediate alerts across security checkpoints.
The United States Department of State said it is closely monitoring the situation, emphasising that the safety of American citizens remains a top priority. Officials also indicated that the journalist had been warned of potential threats and advised to leave Iraq shortly before the incident.
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Kittleson has contributed to regional outlets such as Al-Monitor, which expressed deep concern and called for her immediate and safe release. The outlet praised her reporting and urged swift action to secure her freedom.
The kidnapping comes amid heightened tensions in Iraq, where Iran-backed militias have frequently targeted U.S. interests. The United States Embassy in Baghdad has previously issued warnings about increased risks, including kidnappings, urging American citizens to leave the country.
The incident also recalls past cases, including the abduction of Elizabeth Tsurkov in 2023, who was later freed in 2025 after being held by militants.
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