Iraq: Security

In April 2026, the security situation in Baghdad was marked by the kidnapping of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, an incident for which video footage has reportedly surfaced. This event prompted the US embassy in Baghdad to issue an urgent warning regarding potential attacks by Iran-backed militias in the near term. The Italian foreign ministry, Farnesina, has stated it is monitoring the journalist's case.

The abduction underscores ongoing security challenges within the capital, highlighting the persistent threat environment for foreign nationals. The explicit warning from the US diplomatic mission points to an assessment of elevated and specific risks from militia activity in the immediate period following the incident.