Armed men seize journalist from car on busy street; Iraqi authorities arrest suspect and continue search as no group claims responsibility

American journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in central Baghdad in broad daylight on Tuesday, Iraqi authorities confirmed. According to Iraq’s Interior Ministry, armed men stopped her car on a busy street, forcibly pulled her out, and fled.

Security forces quickly responded, arresting one suspect after a vehicle chase and seizing the vehicle used in the abduction. The ministry said search operations are ongoing to locate the remaining perpetrators and secure Kittleson’s safe release.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and the motive behind the kidnapping remains unclear. The incident underscores the persistent dangers journalists face while reporting in Iraq, even in heavily trafficked areas of Baghdad.

Authorities have called for public vigilance and cooperation as investigations continue. More updates are expected as the situation develops.