The United States has announced the successful release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was recently abducted near Baghdad, Iraq, by members of the Iran-backed militant group Kata’ib Hizballah.
In a statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Kittleson is now free, expressing relief over her safe recovery and ongoing efforts to ensure her secure departure from Iraq.
Rubio commended the coordinated efforts of multiple U.S. agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as cooperation from Iraqi authorities such as the Supreme Judicial Council. He noted that the joint operation played a critical role in securing the journalist’s release.
The Secretary of State подчеркed that the outcome reflects the administration’s commitment under Donald Trump to protect American citizens abroad. “The wrongful detention or kidnapping of U.S. nationals will not be tolerated,” Rubio stated, adding that the government will continue to deploy all available resources to bring Americans home and hold perpetrators accountable.
Kittleson’s abduction had raised concerns about the safety of foreign journalists operating in conflict-prone regions. U.S. officials have not disclosed further details surrounding the circumstances of her release.
