U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped in Baghdad, Iraq. The release comes after significant efforts from the U.S. government, including the FBI and the Pentagon.

Journalist's Release Confirmed

Rubio announced Kittleson’s release late Tuesday, confirming the news after the incident began on March 31. He publicly acknowledged the contributions of various governmental and international entities in securing her freedom.

In a social media post, Rubio expressed gratitude to the FBI, the Pentagon, and Iraqi partners for their instrumental role. He emphasized the Trump Administration’s commitment to the safety and security of American citizens globally and pledged support for her safe departure from Iraq.

Details of the Release and Alleged Abductors

The Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah, allegedly responsible for the abduction, also announced her release. The group stipulated her immediate departure from Iraq as a condition of her freedom.

Abu Mujahid al-Assaf, a security official affiliated with Kataib Hezbollah, framed the abduction as a response to the “war waged by the Zionist-American enemy against Islam.”

Abduction Details

Shelly Kittleson, a 49-year-old freelance journalist from Wisconsin, was abducted in broad daylight on a Baghdad street. Surveillance footage, verified by ABC News and the Iraqi Ministry of Interior, captured the moment she was forced into a vehicle.

A second vehicle allegedly involved in the abduction crashed during an attempted escape, leading to the arrest of one occupant by Iraqi security forces. U.S. assistant secretary of state Dylan Johnson confirmed the suspect’s links to Kataib Hezbollah.

US Response and Warnings

Following the kidnapping, U.S. officials issued a strong warning to Americans in Iraq, recommending their immediate departure. This advisory cited the potential for further attacks by Iranian-aligned Iraqi militia groups, particularly in central Baghdad.

The State Department had previously warned Kittleson about potential threats in the region. Kiran Nazish, director of the Coalition for Women in Journalism, highlighted the frequent threats faced by journalists in Iraq and the Middle East, noting Kittleson’s prior experiences with such threats.

Nazish also emphasized Kittleson’s resilience and strong network of allies.