US-Kuwaiti journalist detained in Kuwait after social media posts, watchdog says
US-Kuwaiti Journalist Detained in Kuwait Following Social Media Activity
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported that an American-Kuwaiti journalist was arrested by Kuwaiti authorities after posting content about the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, who has worked for the BBC, New York Times, and Al Jazeera, was last seen on 2 March and is currently facing charges of spreading false information. The press freedom organization urged for his immediate release without conditions.
Kuwaiti authorities have not yet responded to the CPJ’s call. However, the country and other Gulf Arab nations have detained individuals for sharing footage of Iranian missile and drone attacks on their territory during the ongoing war. Reports from Kuwait’s military and health ministries stated that these attacks resulted in three civilian deaths, two soldiers, and two border guards. Additionally, six US service members were killed, and three American fighter jets were mistakenly downed by Kuwaiti air defenses.
Accusations and Context of Detention
Shihab-Eldin was last seen in Kuwait while visiting family. On 2 March, he shared a verified video of a US F-15 jet crashing near Kuwait City on his Substack platform. He also posted images claiming to show an American pilot who had ejected and landed in the al-Jahra area. The CPJ noted that Shihab-Eldin is charged with spreading false information, endangering national security, and misusing his mobile phone, describing these as “vague and overly broad accusations” often used to suppress independent reporting.
“We call on Kuwait to release Ahmed Shihab-Eldin and drop all charges against him,” said Sara Qudah, CPJ regional director. “Journalism is not a crime, and Shihab-Eldin’s case reflects a broader pattern of using national security laws to stifle scrutiny and control the narrative.”
Earlier this month, Kuwait’s interior ministry advised the public to “refrain from spreading rumours or sharing unverified videos and images,” as reported by state media. It emphasized that such actions are “being closely monitored and dealt with firmly, with violators referred to the relevant authorities for legal action.” The information ministry has also stated that individuals accused of violating media regulations and misleading the public are being sent to prosecutors.
Kuwait’s emir recently issued a decree to “secure and protect the supreme interests of military entities.” Under this law, up to 10 years in prison could be imposed on anyone who “disseminates news, publishes statements, or spreads false rumours related to military entities” with the intent of undermining public confidence. The CPJ highlighted that Shihab-Eldin’s case exemplifies the application of these measures to restrict critical reporting.
