Kidnap crisis ends in Iraq: US journalist Shelly Kittleson released after a week

Rubio confirms release

Announcing the development on X, Rubio said Kittleson had been kidnapped by members of the Iran-backed militant group Kata'ib Hezbollah near Baghdad.

“The US Department of State extends its appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of War, US personnel across multiple agencies, and the Iraqi Supreme Judicial Council and our Iraqi partners for their assistance in securing her release,” he said.

Rubio added that the development reflects the administration’s commitment to the safety of American citizens worldwide.

‘Kidnapping will not be tolerated’

He stressed that under US President Donald Trump, the wrongful detention or kidnapping of US nationals would not be tolerated.

“We will continue to use every tool to bring Americans home and hold accountable those responsible,” Rubio said, adding that efforts were underway to ensure Kittleson’s safe departure from Iraq.

Militant group had announced release

Earlier, Kata'ib Hezbollah had indicated it would release Kittleson, who was abducted on March 31, on the condition that she leave Iraq immediately, according to BBC.

What is Kata’ib Hezbollah?

Kata'ib Hezbollah is an Iraqi Shia Islamist militant group designated as a terrorist organisation by the United States. Active since 2007, it has carried out multiple attacks against Iraqi, US and coalition forces.

According to the US Department of State, the group follows a hardline anti-Western ideology and has used tactics such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs), rocket-propelled grenades and sniper attacks. It has also targeted Baghdad’s International Zone, including a 2008 rocket strike that killed two UN workers.

The group maintains ideological links with Hezbollah.

Who is Shelly Kittleson?

Shelly Kittleson is a US freelance journalist currently based in Rome, with extensive experience reporting from conflict zones including Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria.

She has contributed to several international outlets, including Al-Monitor, BBC World Service and Foreign Policy, and is known for her on-ground reporting in high-risk environments.