American Journalist Shelly Kittleson Kidnapped by Iranian-Backed Militia in Baghdad
Key Takeaways
- American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson abducted in central Baghdad.
- Iraqi interior ministry says security forces launched a manhunt to recover her.
- Iran-backed militias, including Kataib Hezbollah, suspected in the kidnapping.
Kittleson Abducted in Baghdad
Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in central Baghdad by a suspected Iranian-backed militia.
She was forcibly bundled into a vehicle by four assailants on a busy street.
A chase ensued and one kidnapper's car overturned, resulting in one suspect's arrest.
The US State Department confirmed the kidnapping and a suspect was taken into custody.
US officials had warned Kittleson about threats multiple times including the night before.
Kittleson's Career and Risk
Kittleson has reported extensively across the Middle East for over two decades.
She often worked alone without formal assignments on a shoestring budget.
Colleagues describe her as determined and gutsy.
She was known for pursuing hard-to-reach stories involving militia control.
Regional Security Deteriorates
The kidnapping comes as the US-Iran war has spread to Iraq.
Militias with heavy Tehran ties hold significant influence in Iraq.
The US has bombed these groups repeatedly since the war began.
They have targeted the US embassy and military bases.
Efforts to Secure Release
Iraqi authorities are working at the highest level to secure Kittleson's release.
One suspect is in custody and investigations are ongoing.
The FBI has been involved and visited her family.
Al-Monitor called for her safe and immediate release.
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