U.S. Journalist Shelly Kittleson Freed in Iraq Prisoner Swap

In Baghdad, an Iran-backed militia released U.S. journalist Shelly Kittleson on Tuesday. Iraqi officials said the handover occurred as part of a prisoner swap with state authorities.

The case of U.S. journalist Shelly Kittleson, freed in an Iraq prisoner swap, was confirmed by Iraqi sources. The swap involved the militia and Iraqi officials, according to those confirmations.

Details of the exchange

Iraqi authorities provided the basic facts of the release. They did not immediately publish a full account of the terms or timing.

Militia statement

Abu Mujahid al-Assaf, a security official with Kataib Hezbollah, posted a message on Telegram announcing the decision. He said the release was motivated by appreciation for the outgoing prime minister’s national positions and required that Kittleson leave Iraq immediately.

The official also warned the action would not be repeated. He described the group’s posture as one shaped by a state of conflict with what he called the American enemy.

About the group

The militia was identified as Kataib Hezbollah, described by officials as Iran-backed. A named security official from that group issued the public explanation.

Follow-up

Filmogaz.com will monitor further developments and report updates as they become available. Iraqi and militia sources may supply additional information.