BAGHDAD — American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad, Iraq on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The 49-year-old reporter was known for her willingness to pursue challenging assignments, often working without the support of a major news organization.

A Career Dedicated to Reporting from the Middle East

Kittleson had lived abroad for years, establishing a respected journalism career throughout the Middle East. She frequently operated on a shoestring budget, utilizing shared taxis to reach areas of Iraq where militia control is prevalent. She had previously been based in Rome and reported for outlets including Al-Monitor and Il Foglio.

Independent and Determined

Friends and colleagues describe Kittleson as a determined and courageous reporter who had spent over a decade reporting from Iraq, Syria, and the wider region. She often embedded herself in local communities, sometimes staying with families instead of hotels. Her independence meant she often traveled alone, carrying her belongings with her.

Warning Before the Abduction

Hours before her kidnapping, Kittleson met a friend in Baghdad’s Karrada neighborhood and revealed she had received a warning from U.S. officials about a potential threat from a militia group. Despite this, she expressed confidence in her ability to navigate difficult situations, stating, “They will not hurt me.”

Financial Struggles and Passion for Journalism

Kittleson had been facing financial strain, with no current assignments in Baghdad. She had long struggled financially, living frugally. Patrizio Nissirio, a former editor at Italian news agency ANSA, noted her dedication, saying, “She always complained of the treatment of freelance journalists, saying they are not paid enough.”

Recent Travel and Last Published Story

On March 9, Kittleson attempted to enter Iraq from Syria at the al-Qaim border crossing but was turned back by Iraqi intelligence officers due to kidnapping threats. She published her last story with Il Foglio on Monday, March 31, focusing on the impact of the Iran war on Iraq’s Kurdish region.

Family and Friends Concerned

Kittleson’s mother, Barb Kittleson, stated she had last seen her daughter in person in 2002 but they exchanged emails regularly, including on the day before the abduction. She shared that her daughter felt her work was important, saying, “I wanted her to come home and not do it, but she said, ‘I’m helping people.’”