Washington, DC [US], April 1 (ANI): Shelly Kittleson, an American freelance journalist and contributor to Al-Monitor, has reportedly been abducted in Baghdad, with the US Department of State confirming it is investigating the case and noting that she had previously been warned about security risks in the region.

Dylan Johnson, an assistant secretary of state for global public affairs, confirmed in a post on X, 'The U.S. Department of State is aware of the reported kidnapping of an American journalist in Baghdad, Iraq.'

https://x.com/ASDylanJohnson/status/2039068022451613858?s=20

Highlighting the proactive measures taken prior to the incident, Johnson stated that the victim had been alerted to potential dangers. 'The State Department previously fulfilled our duty to warn this individual of threats against them, and we will continue to coordinate with the FBI to ensure their release as quickly as possible,' he added.

Regarding the progress of the investigation on the ground, the US official noted that a suspect with links to a known militia has already been apprehended. 'An individual with ties to the Iranian-aligned militia group Kataib Hizballah, believed to be involved in the kidnapping, has been taken into custody by Iraqi authorities,' Johnson said.

In light of the escalating security concerns, the State Department reiterated its strictest warnings for all US citizens currently in the country. 'Iraq remains at a Level 4 Travel Advisory, and Americans are advised not to travel to Iraq for any reason and to leave Iraq now,' the statement emphasised.

Directing a specific message to media professionals and other citizens, the department issued a final plea for compliance with official safety protocols. 'The State Department strongly advises all Americans, including members of the press, to adhere to all travel advisories,' the post read.

Following these official confirmations, Middle East-focused news outlet Al-Monitor issued an urgent appeal for the safe return of its freelance reporter, Shelly Kittleson, following the reports of her abduction in Iraq on Tuesday. In an official statement, the organisation expressed grave concern, stating, 'We are deeply alarmed by the kidnapping of Al-Monitor contributor Shelly Kittleson in Iraq on Tuesday. We call for her safe and immediate release.'

The outlet further highlighted the significance of Kittleson's presence in the region, noting that they 'stand by her vital reporting from the region and call for her swift return to continue her important work.'

Parallel to these statements, the Iraqi government confirmed that a foreign female journalist has been abducted, sparking an extensive security operation to track down the perpetrators. According to a report by The Hill, authorities are currently focused on locating the victim and securing her release following the evening kidnapping.