American Journalist Abducted in Baghdad

An American journalist, Shelly Kittleson, was abducted in Baghdad on Tuesday by unknown individuals near the Palestine Hotel on Al-Saadoun Street.

The Iraqi Interior Ministry reported that a suspect has been arrested and efforts are underway to secure her release. Initial reports indicated that Kittleson was located and freed; however, there are unconfirmed reports that she was injured and is hospitalized.

Al Arabiya broadcast security camera footage capturing the abduction. According to the report, four men in civilian clothes abducted the journalist. During the pursuit, the kidnappers' car overturned, and an exchange of fire ensued.