American Journalist Shelly Kittleson Released by Kataib Hezbollah in Iraq
Key Takeaways
- Abducted in Baghdad on March 31.
- Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah announced it would release her.
- Release conditioned on her immediate departure from Iraq.
Kittleson's Release
Kittleson was released by Kataib Hezbollah a week after her kidnapping in Baghdad.
“Abducted American journalist Shelly Kittleson released, US says Kittleson was kidnapped on March 31 in Baghdad, Iraq”
The group said she must leave Iraq immediately.
Rubio confirmed her release and thanked partners involved.
Two Iraqi officials said she was freed in exchange for imprisoned militia members.
She was abducted in broad daylight on March 31.
Militia's Conditions and Video
Kataib Hezbollah framed the release as an exceptional gesture linked to the outgoing prime minister.
The group released an undated video of Kittleson reading from a scripted statement.
It was unclear whether she was coerced.
The group said the release would not be repeated due to the state of war.
Government Responses and Warnings
The Iraqi government welcomed Kittleson and made intensive efforts to ensure her safety.
US officials warned her of a planned kidnapping before she was taken.
The US Embassy had repeatedly cautioned citizens to leave.
Kittleson's employers praised her commitment.
The Committee to Protect Journalists called the kidnapping an alarming breach.
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