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Foreign journalist kidnapped in Iraq
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Iraq’s Interior Ministry confirmed on Tuesday that a foreign journalist was kidnapped in Baghdad by an unidentified group.
Security forces immediately launched a manhunt using intelligence and technical tracking to follow the kidnappers’ movements. Authorities intercepted a vehicle believed to belong to the perpetrators, which overturned during an attempted escape. One suspect was arrested, and the vehicle was seized.
The journalist was not inside the vehicle.
Al-Monitor confirmed the journalist’s identity as American freelance reporter Shelley Kittleson. Local reports indicate she was abducted near the Baghdad Hotel on Saadoun Street.
Kittleson, an American citizen based in Rome, has extensive experience reporting from Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. She has contributed to several publications, including Al-Monitor.
The Interior Ministry said operations continue to locate the remaining suspects and ensure the journalist's safe release. Authorities emphasized that all involved will face legal action under Iraqi law and urged the public to rely on official sources for updates.
The ministry also reassured the international community that Iraq will not tolerate attempts to threaten security or target journalists, noting that security forces remain vigilant to uphold the rule of law.
