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US Journalist Freed in Iraq After Kidnapping by Terror Group

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped by the terrorist group Kata'ib Hizballah near Baghdad. The successful resolution involved cooperation between multiple U.S. agencies and Iraqi partners. Rubio stated the Trump Administration's policy of not tolerating the wrongful detention of U.S. nationals anywhere in the world. The State Department reiterated its highest-level travel warning, advising all Americans not to travel to Iraq.

Key Points: US Journalist Freed in Iraq, Rubio Announces Release

  • US journalist freed in Iraq
  • Kidnapped by Kata'ib Hizballah
  • Trump admin commitment cited
  • Multi-agency effort secured release
  • Level 4 travel advisory for Iraq
2 min read

Kidnapped US journalist freed in Iraq, US Secy of State

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announces the release of kidnapped American journalist Shelly Kittleson from Iraq, crediting US and Iraqi partners.

"This resolution reflects the Trump Administration's steadfast commitment to the safety and security of American citizens - Marco Rubio"

Washington DC, April 8

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday announced the release of kidnapped American journalist Shelly Kittleson from Iraq.

Rubio said that they were further working to ensure Kittleson's departure from Iraq.

In a post on X, he said, "I am pleased to announce the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was recently kidnapped by members of the foreign terrorist organization Kata'ib Hizballah near Baghdad, Iraq. The U.S. Department of State extends its appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of War, U.S. personnel across multiple agencies, and the Iraqi Supreme Judicial Council and our Iraqi partners, for their assistance in securing her release."

Rubio said that the administration led by US President Donald Trump will not tolerate such instances involving US nationals.

"This resolution reflects the Trump Administration's steadfast commitment to the safety and security of American citizens, no matter where they are in the world. Under President Trump, the wrongful detention or kidnapping of U.S. nationals will not be tolerated. We will continue to use every tool to bring Americans home and to hold accountable those responsible. We are relieved that this American is now free and are working to support her safe departure from Iraq," he stated.

Shelly Kittleson, an American freelance journalist and contributor to Al-Monitor, was abducted in Baghdad, with the US Department of State confirming it is investigating the case and noting that she had previously been warned about security risks in the region.

Dylan Johnson, an assistant secretary of state for global public affairs, confirmed in a post on X, "The U.S. Department of State is aware of the reported kidnapping of an American journalist in Baghdad, Iraq."

In light of the escalating security concerns, the State Department reiterated its strictest warnings for all US citizens currently in the country. "Iraq remains at a Level 4 Travel Advisory, and Americans are advised not to travel to Iraq for any reason and to leave Iraq now," the statement emphasised.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
While I'm relieved for her, I have to ask - why do journalists keep going into such high-risk areas despite repeated warnings? The State Department had a Level 4 advisory. It puts not just them, but also the personnel who have to risk their lives in rescue missions, in danger.
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Rohit P
The US government's commitment to its citizens is commendable. "No matter where they are in the world" – that's a powerful statement. We need our government to have the same resolve for Indians in trouble overseas, whether in the Gulf or elsewhere.
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Sarah B
This is positive news, but it also highlights the unstable situation in Iraq. The mention of cooperation with Iraqi authorities is key. International partnerships are crucial for security. Hope this leads to more stability in the region.
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Vikram M
Glad she's free. But reading this from India, I can't help but think of the countless times our fishermen are arrested or citizens face issues abroad. The scale and speed of US response is something to aspire to. Jai Hind.
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Kavya N
A life saved is always a cause for celebration. 🙌 Kudos to all the agencies involved. It's a dangerous job being a journalist in conflict zones. They bring us the stories the world needs to see. Stay safe, Shelly.

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