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⇱ 'Precise Intelligence': US Journalist Shelly Kittleson Abducted in Baghdad as Iraqi Forces Launch High-Stakes Manhunt


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American journalist Shelly Kittleson kidnapped in Iraq

Kittleson's abduction in Baghdad triggered Iraqi security operation after she was kidnapped by unknown individuals, reports stated.

1 min readApr 1, 2026 05:35 AM IST First published on: Mar 31, 2026 at 11:22 PM IST
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👁 Shelly Kittleson abducted, iraq
US freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson is an award winning journalist. (Photo: Instagram/ Shelly Kittleson)

US freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson has been abducted from Baghdad on Tuesday by unknown individuals, Iraq’s interior ministry said, as security forces launched an operation to track down the kidnappers, Baghdad’s local media stated.

Iraq’s interior ministry added that the operation was launched “acting on precise intelligence and through intensive field operations” after intercepting a vehicle belonging to the kidnappers that overturned as they tried to flee, AP reported.

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The interior ministry added that the journalist, whose identity was not officially disclosed, was kidnapped on Tuesday evening but declined to specify the exact location. However, Iraqi media said that Kittleson was kidnapped in central Baghdad.

Iraq’s local media identified the journalist as Shelly Kittleson, who holds a US passport and is an award winning journalist. Authorities said efforts are ongoing to ​free the journalist.

The Express Global Desk at The Indian Express delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read More

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