The US State Department thanked various stakeholders, including US personnel across departments and Iraq’s judicial authorities, for their assistance in the operation.
The United States today confirmed the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was abducted last week in Baghdad by the Iran-backed militia Kata’ib Hizballah.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Kittleson had been freed following coordinated efforts involving multiple American agencies and Iraqi authorities. In a statement, Rubio said he was ‘pleased to announce her release’ after she was taken by members of the group near the Iraqi capital.
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He credited the joint role of agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with Iraqi partners, in securing her freedom. According to him, the arrangement also included conditions ensuring her immediate departure from Iraq after being released.
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The US State Department thanked various stakeholders, including US personnel across departments and Iraq’s judicial authorities, for their assistance in the operation. “The US Department of State extends its appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of War, US personnel across multiple agencies, and the Iraqi Supreme Judicial Council and our Iraqi partners, for their assistance in securing her release,” Rubio said.
Rubio said the development highlights the United State’s continued focus on protecting its citizens worldwide. He added that the administration of Donald Trump remains firm in its stance against the wrongful detention or kidnapping of US nationals.
“We will continue to use every tool to bring Americans home and hold those responsible accountable,” he said, adding that efforts are underway to ensure Kittleson’s safe return.
Kittleson, a freelance reporter, is known for her on-ground reporting from conflict zones, particularly in Syria and Iraq, where she has worked independently for several years.
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