It was March 31st when Shelly Kittleson, an American journalist who lives in Italy, was forced into a vehicle on a Baghdad street and disappeared. There is little doubt that this is what happened because the abduction was captured on CCTV. She was in country working on a story when she was captured.
One would think that the abduction of an American journalist on assignment in a foreign land would automatically trigger a reaction by the United States government and, quite possibly, a rescue operation. But that would be a conclusion based on assumptions.
In actual fact, even though Kittleson is obviously being held as a hostage, the United States can take little action until our government officially declares her one.
But then, one might ask, wouldn’t it be almost automatic that such a declaration be made? Again one would hope so. But apparently, that’s not how it works either.
That’s why three press freedom groups have fired off a joint letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio asking that necessary steps be taken to try to locate and free her. Such an official designation would, the groups say, mobilize resources and diplomatic channels to bring her home safely.
The three organizations are the Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders and the Foley Foundation.
It’s quite possible Kittleson’s abduction has everything to do with the war in Iran.
The BBC reports it is believed that the veteran award-winning freelance journalist who has reported from the Middle East for about 20 years, is held by an Iran-aligned militia, possibly Kata'ib Hezbollah. The BBC also reports a ransom demand has been made.
But what's the United States government doing about it?
garybaumgarten.substack.com
