An Iran-backed militia in Iraq has announced the impending release of American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped in Baghdad one week ago.
Kataib Hezbollah stated on Tuesday that it would free Kittleson, who was abducted on March 31, on the condition she departs Iraq immediately. A security official for the group, Abu Mujahid al-Assaf, cited "recognition of the national stances of the outgoing prime minister" as the reason for the decision.
"In recognition of the national stances of the outgoing prime minister, we have decided to release the American defendant Shelly Kittleson," said Abu Mujahid al-Assaf in a statement.
Major news outlets, including The New York Times and Associated Press, reported her release on Tuesday, citing Iraqi officials, though her exact whereabouts remain unconfirmed.
The 49-year-old journalist's abduction last week prompted a vehicle pursuit by Iraqi security forces, resulting in the overturning of a kidnapper's car and one arrest. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani subsequently ordered forces to pursue those responsible for targeting foreigners.
In a separate post, Assaf indicated the group would release a recording detailing Kittleson's "role and activities in Iraq," without providing specifics. The kidnapping occurs against a backdrop of ongoing attacks by Iran and allied Iraqi Shia militias on US-associated targets across the region.
Alex Plitsas, a friend and emergency contact for Kittleson who serves as a CNN national security analyst, noted he had seen the "alleged statement" regarding her release but emphasized, "we have no official confirmation from the United States government that this is true."
It is understood that US officials had contacted Kittleson multiple times prior to her abduction to warn of specific threats. Plitsas previously revealed that Kittleson had been informed her name was on a Kataib Hezbollah list targeting female journalists for kidnapping or harm.
Kittleson, based in Rome, Italy, is an experienced conflict reporter who has covered events in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. The US State Department continues to advise citizens against travel to Iraq due to security risks.