American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been released after a week of captivity in Baghdad, Iraq, where she was abducted by the Iran-aligned militia Kataib Hezbollah on March 31. Her release was confirmed by officials from both the US and Iraq, following a public announcement from the militia that she must leave the country immediately. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed relief at her safe return and thanked Iraqi authorities and American agencies for their efforts. Reports indicate that Kittleson's release may have involved an exchange for several imprisoned members of Kataib Hezbollah. Kittleson, a seasoned journalist with experience in conflict zones, was abducted amid escalating tensions in Iraq, where Iran-aligned militias have increased attacks on US-associated targets. The US State Department continues to warn American citizens against traveling to Iraq due to persistent security threats and risks of kidnapping.