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 said 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 help securing her release and said 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 chased the suspects in a pursuit that led to one of the kidnappers' cars overturning and the arrest of one person. Last week, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani ordered security forces to pursue those responsible for abducting foreigners.
Published: April 7, 2026 5:49 pm
Source: BBC — Read original