Rubio says US journalist Shelly Kittleson is free, working on safe departure from Iraq

The Hill
by Ashleigh Fields
April 8, 2026
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3 min read

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been freed from captivity in Iraq.

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been freed after being held hostage in Iraq. Kittleson was reportedly kidnapped by members of the foreign terrorist organization Kata’ib, an Iran-backed militia, and held for just over a week. Rubio confirmed her release late Tuesday and stated efforts are underway for her safe departure from Iraq. This development highlights the ongoing risks faced by journalists operating in conflict zones and the challenges posed by Iran-backed groups in the region. The White House has not yet commented on the specifics of her release or any negotiations involved.

What's Being Done

Efforts are underway for Shelly Kittleson's safe departure from Iraq after being held by Kata’ib.

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