Top US diplomat announces release of kidnapped American journalist in Iraq

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday announced the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped in Iraq recently.

"We are relieved that this American is now free and are working to support her safe departure from Iraq," Rubio said on US social media company X.

Earlier, Iraq's Kataib Hezbollah militia announced the release of Kittleson and ordered the reporter to leave the country immediately.

Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad on March 31.

Her capture came amid regional escalations since Israel and the US launched an offensive against Iran on Feb. 28.