Shelly Kittleson (born 1976/77) is a freelance American journalist, primarily reporting on conflict, security, and humanitarian concerns in the Middle East and Afghanistan. On March 31, 2026, Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad, Iraq. She was reportedly kidnapped by an Iranian-backed militia group, Kata'ib Hezbollah. One suspect was arrested.
Kittleson began working as a freelance journalist around 2010, covering major geopolitical events and conflicts in the Middle East and Central Asia. Her reporting has focused on Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, where she has spent extended periods reporting from the ground. She has contributed to numerous international publications, including outlets such as Al-Monitor, BBC, Politico, and Foreign Policy.
Kittleson is originally from Monticello, Wisconsin. She is based in Rome, Italy.
On March 31, 2026, Kittleson was reportedly kidnapped in Baghdad, Iraq, near the Baghdad Hotel, while on assignment. She was reportedly kidnapped by an Iranian-backed militia group, Kata'ib Hezbollah. Iraqi authorities reported that she was abducted by unidentified individuals, and a security operation was launched to locate her. A vehicle involved in the kidnapping was located by authorities. One suspect was arrested.