I'm having a hard time figuring this one out. Whoever killed her must have known who she was, and at least a little of how much she has done for the people of Iraq. The goal of most of the kidnappings seems to be the release of prisoners, the withdrawl of troops, or both. The victim, to have the greatest effect on the target, and for the kidnappers to generate the least animosity/greatest sympathy of the Iraqi people, should be clearly representative of the target group and not viewed with favour by the general population.

The insurgents/kidnappers have been portrayed as having one of two goals: the expulsion of the occupying force, or the disruption/destruction of moves towards Iraqi elections and democracy. Either way, killing a woman who has dedicated her life to the betterment of Iraqi citizens can hardly further these goals.

Ms. Hassan was held for many days, apparently in an unknown location, so desperation wasn't a factor.

Conspiracy theory? It was done by someone sympathetic to the occupying force inorder to turn public opinion against the insurgents. I don't think this is the case, but is it impossible?