WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Kidnapped American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been released in Iraq after weeks in captivity, according to U.S. and Iraqi officials. The development brings relief to her family, colleagues, and press freedom groups that had pushed for her safe return.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Tuesday that Kittleson had been freed by a pro-Iran militia. A senior Iraqi official said authorities received her and began arranging her return travel. Rubio said the U.S. government worked closely with Iraqi partners to secure her release. He thanked multiple agencies for their efforts, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other U.S. personnel.
“We are relieved that this American is now free,” Rubio said in a statement posted on X. “We are working to support her safe departure from Iraq.”
Iraqi officials also said they made extensive efforts to ensure Kittleson’s safety during the process.
Kittleson, a journalist known for reporting on Middle East affairs, was abducted last month. Officials said the group responsible was Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia operating in Iraq.
On Tuesday, a security official from the group, Abu Mujahid al-Assaf, said in a Telegram post that the militia decided to release Kittleson. He added that the decision came with a condition that she leave Iraq immediately. The kidnapping raised fresh concerns about the safety of journalists working in conflict zones. It also highlighted the risks faced by foreign reporters in Iraq amid ongoing regional tensions.
According to a source familiar with the situation, U.S. officials had warned Kittleson shortly before her disappearance about a possible plot by Kataib Hezbollah. The warning came while she was already reporting in Iraq. After her abduction, Iraqi security forces launched an operation to locate her and identify those responsible. U.S. officials said they monitored the situation closely and coordinated with Iraqi authorities throughout the effort. The case drew attention from international organizations and media groups. Al-Monitor, where Kittleson contributes, called for her immediate release soon after her capture.
“We stand by her vital reporting from the region,” the organization said. “We call for her swift return to continue her important work.”
Several press freedom organizations also pushed for action. Reporters Without Borders, the Committee to Protect Journalists, and the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation sent a joint letter urging U.S. officials to prioritize Kittleson’s release. The Committee to Protect Journalists warned that her abduction showed growing dangers for reporters in Iraq.
“The abduction of Shelly Kittleson in broad daylight reflects an alarming breach of journalists’ safety,” said Sara Qudah, the group’s regional director. She added that the case highlights the rising risks of reporting in the Middle East.
The kidnapping occurred against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. Since late February, U.S. officials have warned that Iran-backed militias could target American citizens in Iraq. The US Embassy in Iraq has repeatedly advised Americans to leave the country. In its latest warning, the embassy said, “Do not travel to Iraq for any reason. Depart immediately if you are there.” These warnings reflect ongoing security concerns in the region. Militias continue to operate in parts of Iraq, creating risks for civilians, aid workers, and journalists.
