Journalist held captive in Iraq is released
April 7, 2026 • Google News World
American Journalist Freed After Being Held Captive in Iraq
A US journalist who was kidnapped in Baghdad has been released, according to reports. The journalist, identified as Shelly Kittleson, was taken into custody by an Iraqi militia group on an unspecified date.
Kittleson was reportedly held captive for several days before being freed. According to the Iraqi militia group that held her, she must leave Iraq immediately in order to be released.
The journalist is known for pursuing low-budget assignments and has a reputation for taking risks in her reporting.
Details of Kittleson’s captivity and the circumstances surrounding her release are not yet available.
Kittleson was working as a journalist in Baghdad at the time of her kidnapping. The incident highlights the ongoing security concerns in Iraq, where journalists often face risks when covering sensitive topics.
The Iraqi militia group that held Kittleson has released a statement confirming their intention to free her, but no further details have been provided.
Kittleson’s release is being reported by various news outlets, including The New York Times, US News & World Report, AP News, and The Guardian.
Source: Google News World