Iraq's Ministry of Interior confirmed that American journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in central
By Bernie,
Iraq's Ministry of Interior confirmed that American journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in central Baghdad tonight near the Palestine Hotel. Al Arabiya broadcast footage of the abduction.
Iraqi security forces launched an immediate pursuit based on precise intelligence, intercepting the kidnappers' vehicle as it headed toward Jurf al-Sakhar, a stronghold of the Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah. The vehicle overturned during the chase and one suspect was arrested.
Kittleson, a Baghdad-based reporter for Al-Monitor who covers armed factions and regional security, was rescued but wounded and has been hospitalized. The ministry says efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining perpetrators. Iraq's Interior Ministry said it would not permit "any attempt to destabilize security or target foreign guests."
Topics: Iran, Lebanon & Hezbollah
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