Could this possibly be accurate? Al Jazeera is reporting that the two Italian women, Simona Pari and Simona Torretta, being held hostage in Iraq have been released.

Two Italian women aid workers held hostage in Iraq have been released and handed over to the Italian charge d'affaires in Baghdad, Al Jazeera television said on Tuesday.

The Arab news network gave no further details. There was no immediate independent confirmation of their release.

*Crosses fingers and says a little prayer*

Update 1:
Another link from CNN and a comment from the Italian PM:

"Finally, a moment of joy," said Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi in a statement on the Italian government's Web site.

Update 2:
Reuters is reporting that a $1 million ransom was paid for the two. (thanks Rusty)

There had been little word on the fate of the Italians since their abduction, along with two Iraqi colleagues, although Al-Rai al-Aam, a leading Kuwait daily, reported the kidnappers had agreed to their release in exchange for a $1 million ransom.

More updates to come.

---

If you haven't been keeping up check out my other entries on the "Two Simonas" below.

Related stories on Diggers Realm:
September 08, 2004
Two Italian Women And An Iraqi Woman And Man Taken Hostage In Iraq

September 10, 2004
Italian Aid Worker Hostage Update, Threats Made Against Denmark

September 13, 2004
Latest On Italian Women Being Held Hostage In Iraq

September 19, 2004
Italian Women Being Held Hostage In Iraq Sold To Zarqawi?

September 23, 2004
Please Be Wrong. Rumor Of Italian Women Hostages Beheaded

September 26, 2004
Italian Women Being Held Hostage In Iraq "In Good Health"?

Tip from: Right on Red

Related Commentary:
In the Bullpen
Blogs of War
Backcountry Conservative
On The Third Hand