US Journalist Kidnapped in Baghdad by Iran-Linked Militia

An American journalist, Shelly Kittleson, was kidnapped in Baghdad on March 31, 2026, by a suspected Iranian-backed militia, according to the U.S. State Department.

The suspect, linked to Kataib Hezballah, has been taken into custody by Iraqi authorities. Security forces also seized a vehicle used in the incident.

Kittleson, a freelance reporter based in Rome, contributes to Al-Monitor and other outlets. Her safety is being sought by both U.S. and Iraqi officials.

Regional tensions have escalated following a February 28 U.S.-Israeli strike on Iran. The State Department confirmed it had previously warned Kittleson of risks in Iraq and urged all Americans to depart due to ongoing threats.