Award-Winning US Journalist Kidnapped in Iraq

American journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in Iraq, her employer reported Tuesday. The news outlet Al-Monitor, which covers the Middle East, stated that Kittleson was taken. No group has claimed responsibility. Details about the location or circumstances are not yet public. Kittleson is an experienced reporter based in the region. She has received awards for her work. Iraqi authorities and the U.S. State Department are investigating. Both have been notified of the incident. Kidnappings for ransom or political reasons have occurred in Iraq for years. They often target foreign nationals and journalists.