US journalist abducted in Iraq was 'stressed out' by kidnap training: Colleague

ABC News
April 2, 2026
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3 min read

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American journalist Shelly Kittleson was abducted in Iraq while reporting.

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American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been abducted in Iraq, prompting an ongoing search operation. A colleague characterized Kittleson as resilient and cautious about personal security, noting she had undergone kidnap training—though she found the experience stressful. The abduction underscores the persistent dangers faced by international journalists reporting from conflict zones in the Middle East, where American citizens have been targeted by militant groups in the past. Kittleson's professional approach to safety measures reflects the precautions many news organizations require their staff to take when working in high-risk areas. Details about the circumstances of her abduction and the status of the search remain unclear.

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