Iran-Backed Militia to Release American Journalist Shelly Kittleson in Iraq

Release of Shelly Kittleson

An Iran-supported militia in Iraq announced on Tuesday its intention to release American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped in Baghdad. The militia, Kataib Hezbollah, stated that the decision to free Kittleson was made "in appreciation of the national positions taken by the outgoing Prime Minister," but emphasized that she must leave the country immediately. They also warned that such an initiative would not be repeated soon, citing ongoing hostilities against Islam from what they termed the "Zionist-American enemy." Kittleson, a freelance journalist known for her contributions to various international outlets, was abducted on Tuesday evening, as confirmed by both Iraqi and US officials.

The Iraqi interior ministry reported that security forces initiated an operation to track down the kidnappers based on "precise intelligence" and extensive field operations. This pursuit led to the interception of a vehicle belonging to the abductors, which overturned during their escape attempt. One suspect was apprehended, although the ministry referred to the kidnappers as "unknown individuals" without revealing their identities.

A US State Department representative confirmed that an individual associated with Kataib Hezbollah had been detained by Iraqi authorities. Dylan Johnson, the US assistant secretary of state for global public affairs, acknowledged the abduction of an American journalist without naming Kittleson. He stated that the State Department had previously warned her about potential threats and would continue to work with the FBI to facilitate her swift release.

According to Al-Monitor, Kittleson was taken near a hotel in central Baghdad. The publication expressed deep concern over her kidnapping and called for her "safe and immediate release." The US State Department is actively collaborating with the Iraqi government to secure her freedom. Kittleson, who resides in Rome, has reported on various conflicts, including those in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, contributing to numerous international publications. Her emergency contact, Alex Plitsas, a national security analyst, revealed that Kittleson had been made aware of her name appearing on a list held by Kataib Hezbollah, which allegedly targeted female journalists for kidnapping or assassination. Another source indicated that she had been warned of potential risks but believed them to be exaggerated.

Kataib Hezbollah has been a significant force within Iraq's network of Iran-aligned militias, aiming to expel US troops from the region. Despite its anti-American rhetoric, the group operates within Iraq's intricate political and security framework, where some militias receive government support.