US journalist Shelly Kittleson reportedly abducted in Baghdad by an Iran-backed group

BAGHDAD, IRAQ: An American freelance journalist has gone missing in Baghdad after being forcibly taken in a brazen incident that Iraqi officials say is now under active investigation.

The country’s interior ministry confirmed on March 31 that reporter Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in the capital, triggering an urgent security response as authorities attempt to trace her whereabouts.

Iraqi forces intercept vehicle but journalist remains missing

Initial details about the abduction surfaced through journalists tracking developments on the ground.

Al Jazeera producer Saad Abedine reported that Kittleson was taken in central Baghdad by “unidentified perpetrators affiliated with Iranian-backed Iraqi Shiite militias,” alongside video footage that appeared to show a woman being forced into a car in daylight.

Iraqi authorities say they acted quickly once alerted, launching an operation based on what officials described as “precise intelligence.” 

Security forces later intercepted a vehicle believed to be linked to the suspects, which overturned as those inside attempted to flee.

One individual was detained at the scene, but Kittleson was not found in the vehicle, suggesting she may have been moved before the interception.

Reports indicate the incident occurred near a well-known area in central Baghdad, adding to concerns over the boldness of the abduction.

Kittleson's friend and CNN national security analyst urged for leads on her writing: ''I can confirm that my friend Shelly Kittleson was abducted and may have taken hostage. Whereabouts and condition unknown. I am her designated US point of contact. If you have information please provide to law enforcement and send me a DM.''

Shelly Kittleson known for Middle East coverage

Kittleson has built a career covering complex political and humanitarian issues across the Middle East, contributing to international outlets such as BBC and Politico.

She has spent significant time reporting from conflict zones, often focusing on regional dynamics and underreported stories.

Her recent work reflects continued engagement with developments in the region, and her social media activity suggested she was actively reporting from Iraq in the days leading up to her disappearance.

In earlier remarks about her profession, Kittleson had described reporting from conflict areas as something that gave her “a purpose,” while also acknowledging the personal toll such work can take.