Daijiworld Media Network - Baghdad

Baghdad, Apr 8: A US freelance journalist abducted in Iraq’s capital has been released after a week in captivity, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed.

The journalist, Shelly Kittleson, was kidnapped in Baghdad on March 31. Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah had earlier indicated it would free her on the condition that she leave Iraq immediately.

Rubio stated that the release reflects the administration’s commitment to the safety of American citizens worldwide. He also thanked Iraqi authorities for their role in securing her freedom and said efforts are underway to ensure her safe departure from the country.

At the time of the abduction, Iraqi security forces had launched a chase that resulted in one suspect being arrested after a vehicle overturn incident. Following the kidnapping, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani had ordered intensified operations to track down those responsible for targeting foreign nationals.

Meanwhile, a representative linked to the militia group said a recording related to Kittleson’s activities in Iraq would be released, though no further details were provided.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Iran-backed militias carrying out attacks on US-linked targets since the escalation of the conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran.

Kittleson, 49, is based in Rome and has reported extensively from conflict zones including Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. According to reports, US officials had warned her prior to the kidnapping about specific threats from Iran-backed groups, with her name allegedly appearing on a target list.

Her associate, security analyst Alex Plitsas, said while he had seen claims of her release, there was initially no official confirmation. The US State Department continues to advise its citizens against travel to Iraq citing security risks.