Iraqi Militia Kataib Hezbollah Announces Release of Kidnapped US Journalist Shelly Kittleson

Kataib Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militia based in Iraq, announced on Thursday that it will release US journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped in the country. The group specified that her release is conditional on her immediate departure from Iraq. This development follows reports of her abduction earlier in the week.

Shelly Kittleson, a freelance journalist known for covering conflict zones in the Middle East, was reported missing in Iraq. According to multiple sources, Kataib Hezbollah claimed responsibility for her kidnapping. The militia's announcement marks the first public statement regarding her status since the incident.

the Kidnapping Initial reports from Israeli news outlets indicated that Kataib Hezbollah had abducted Kittleson.

The kidnapping occurred amid heightened tensions in Iraq involving foreign journalists and militia groups. No specific location or date for the abduction was detailed in the available reports. Kataib Hezbollah, designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, operates as a non-state actor with ties to Iran.

The group has a history of targeting individuals perceived as threats to its interests. Kittleson's work often focused on Iraqi security and militia activities.

The militia's statement emphasized that Kittleson must exit Iraq without delay following her release.

BBC News reported the announcement directly from Kataib Hezbollah. No timeline for the actual handover was provided.

“Kataib Hezbollah says the release comes on condition that she leave Iraq immediately." — Kataib Hezbollah, via BBC News, October 10, 2024 International media and US officials have monitored the situation closely. The US State Department has not yet issued an official response to the announcement. Journalists in Iraq face ongoing risks from non-state actors. The release, if executed, could ease immediate concerns for Kittleson's safety. However, it highlights persistent security challenges for foreign correspondents in the region. Iraqi authorities have not commented on the militia's involvement.”