American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been freed following her abduction on a Baghdad street last week, according to statements from her captors and U.S. officials.
An Iran-backed militia claimed responsibility for the kidnapping and announced the release in a statement, stipulating that Kittleson must leave Iraq immediately as a condition of her freedom.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the journalist's release, expressing relief at her safe return.
Details surrounding the circumstances of her capture and the negotiations leading to her release remain limited. The case highlighted security risks faced by international journalists operating in Iraq, where armed groups maintain significant influence over certain areas.
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