(Photo from Shelly Kittleson/Instagram) ,
U.S. media confirm that an American female journalist was abducted while in Baghdad, Iraq, and call for her prompt and safe release.
Al-Monitor, a U.S.-based news organization, confirmed the abduction of Shelly Kittleson, an American journalist working as a correspondent for them in Baghdad, Iraq, on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, and called for her immediate and safe release.
Al-Monitor said the news agency was "deeply shocked" by Kittleson's abduction and "calls for her safe and immediate release. We support her vital reporting work in the region and urge her swift release so she can continue her important work," the statement added.
Iraq’s Ministry of Interior stated earlier that a foreign female journalist was abducted by unidentified individuals in central Baghdad on Tuesday evening. Security forces have launched operations to track down the perpetrators and expedite efforts to secure her freedom.
U.S. State Department officials said they are "closely monitoring these reports" but declined further comment "due to privacy and other considerations," adding, "The Trump administration places the highest priority on the safety and security of American citizens."
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) expressed "deep concern" over reports of Kittleson's abduction, urging Iraqi authorities to do everything possible to locate her and "bring those responsible to justice."
According to Al-Monitor, Kittleson is a journalist specializing in the Middle East and Afghanistan, with published work in international media outlets in both the U.S. and Italy.
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Source:cnn