Baghdad

Three Swedish men have had their death sentences converted to life imprisonment in Iraq for the murder of a former gang leader in Baghdad, following a high-profile killing that exposed gang rivalries.

American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped on Tuesday evening on Saadoun Street in central Baghdad by suspected Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah, according to U.S. officials and Iraqi security sources. Iraq's Interior Ministry confirmed the abduction, and she remains missing amid ongoing efforts to secure her release.

Iran's counterattacks are continuing, according to sources, as Saudi Arabia reports a missile attack and Baghdad's airport is targeted. The incidents mark a significant escalation in regional tensions.

Armed groups close to Iran attempted to enter the American embassy in Baghdad's Green Zone shortly after news of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's death became known, with Iran's allies signaling potential entry into battles.