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Since late February 2026, Iraq has become a critical battleground in the US-Israeli war on Iran. Iranian-backed militias and US forces have exchanged drone and airstrikes, killing hundreds including civilians, commanders, and UN peacekeepers. Iraqi authorities have authorized Iran-aligned Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) to defend themselves, while Baghdad demands stronger government action to contain escalating violence.
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Freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson was abducted in Baghdad on March 31 by Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah. Iraqi security forces have arrested one suspect and are pursuing others. The US State Department is involved, emphasizing her safety amid ongoing regional tensions.
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Shelly Renee Kittleson, a US freelance journalist, was kidnapped from a Baghdad street. Iraqi authorities believe she is held in the city, with suspicions pointing to Iran-linked militia Kataib Hezbollah. She had been warned of threats before her abduction, and a suspect was arrested during the chase.
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Kataib Hezbollah has released American journalist Shelly Kittleson after her kidnapping in Baghdad. The group cited Iraq’s prime minister’s efforts and her departure from the country as conditions for her release. She was freed in exchange for detained militia members, with a video of her staged confession released afterward.
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Freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson, kidnapped in Baghdad on March 31 by Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah, has been released following negotiations. Her release involved the detention of militia members, and she was seen in a staged video under duress. US and Iraqi officials coordinated efforts to secure her freedom.