Shelly Kittleson, 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.
The Iranian-backed militia group Kataib Hezbollah announced earlier on Tuesday that it would release Kittleson, taken on March 31, on the condition that she leave Iraq immediately.
Rubio stated that 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 their help and confirmed that the US is currently working to support her safe departure from Iraq.
Following Kittleson's abduction, Iraqi security forces pursued suspects, resulting in the overturning of one of the kidnappers' cars and the arrest of an individual.
Last week, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani ordered security forces to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the abduction of foreigners.
In a separate communication, Assaf, a spokesperson for the militia, mentioned that the group would release a recording showing Kittleson's role and activities in Iraq, without additional details.
The kidnapping occurred amidst ongoing attacks by Iranian and allied Iraqi Shia militias targeting US-related sites across Iraq, particularly following rising tensions due to the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran.
Kittleson's friend, CNN analyst Alex Plitsas, noted he had seen a statement regarding her release but indicated there was no official confirmation from the US government at that time. US officials had reportedly contacted Kittleson several times before her kidnapping, warning her of potential threats against her.
Plitsas previously shared with CBS that Kittleson had been warned of a specific threat from Iran-backed paramilitaries, which reportedly had her name on a list being circulated by Kataib Hezbollah, who were said to be plotting to target female journalists.
Based in Rome, Italy, Kittleson has covered conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, contributing to various publications. In light of the incident, the US State Department continues to advise citizens against travel to Iraq.
