**Excerpt:** Shelly Kittleson, an American journalist, was kidnapped in Baghdad amid rising security concerns for foreign reporters.
Key Points:
– Shelly Kittleson was abducted in Baghdad on Tuesday by unidentified individuals.
– Iraqi authorities have arrested one suspect linked to her kidnapping.
– Kittleson had received prior warnings about threats from the Iranian-backed group Kata’ib Hezbollah.
– The U.S. government is coordinating efforts with various agencies to secure her release.
– The FBI and State Department have previously warned Kittleson about specific threats against her.
Kidnapping Details
American journalist Shelly Kittleson was reported kidnapped in Baghdad on Tuesday, as confirmed by several sources, including an Iraqi official and her designated contact in the U.S., Alex Plitsas. The Iraqi Interior Ministry stated that a foreign journalist had been kidnapped by “unknown individuals,” without naming Kittleson. Security forces have since arrested one suspect and seized a vehicle involved in the incident.
Prior Warnings
Plitsas confirmed that Kittleson had been warned by the U.S. government about threats against her from the Iranian-backed paramilitary group Kata’ib Hezbollah. This group had allegedly targeted female journalists, and Kittleson was reportedly on a list of individuals deemed at risk. Despite receiving multiple warnings, including one just before her departure to Baghdad, Kittleson believed the threats were likely false information.
Government Response
Dylan Johnson, an assistant secretary of state for global public affairs, stated that the detained suspect had ties to Kata’ib Hezbollah. He emphasized that the State Department had previously notified Kittleson about the threats and is working with the FBI to ensure her safe return. Iraqi authorities are reportedly working at “the highest level” to secure her release.
Background on Kittleson
Kittleson, who is Italian American, resides in Rome and has extensive experience reporting in conflict zones, including Iraq and Syria. Journalist Kiran Nazish, who had communicated with Kittleson before her trip, noted that Kittleson was reassured by a local family that they would keep her safe. Despite advice against traveling, Kittleson decided to proceed, citing her prior experience.
Call for Action
AI-Monitor, the news outlet for which Kittleson reports, released a statement expressing alarm over her kidnapping and calling for her immediate and safe return. The FBI and the White House have not yet commented on the ongoing situation. The U.S. Embassy in Iraq had issued warnings earlier this week regarding potential threats to American citizens in the region, further highlighting the volatile security environment.
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