An Iran-backed militia has released American journalist Shelly Kittleson after abducting her in Baghdad, in what officials say was part of a prisoner exchange with Iraqi authorities.
A security official linked to Kataib Hezbollah confirmed that the group decided to free Kittleson, citing what it described as respect for the outgoing Iraqi prime minister’s stance. However, the group warned that such a move would not be repeated and insisted she must leave the country immediately.
Two Iraqi officials, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the situation, also confirmed her release. The agreement reportedly involved the release of several members of the militia who had been detained over alleged attacks on U.S. interests in Iraq and the Persian Gulf.
Kittleson, a freelance journalist who has covered the Middle East for multiple American outlets, was kidnapped in Baghdad last week. She was believed to have been held in Jurf al-Sakhar, a known stronghold of Kataib Hezbollah located south of the capital.
Before her release, the militia had not publicly claimed responsibility for the abduction or provided proof that she was alive. However, U.S. officials had classified her as a hostage and were working to secure her freedom through coordinated efforts involving the FBI and the State Department.
Neither the U.S. government nor the White House has officially commented on the development.
Kataib Hezbollah, one of the most powerful armed groups in Iraq, was designated a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in 2009.
