US-Kuwaiti journalist detained in Kuwait after social media posts, watchdog says
US-Kuwaiti Journalist Detained in Kuwait Amid Social Media Posts, Watchdog Reports
According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an American-Kuwaiti reporter was taken into custody in Kuwait following his online commentary about the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. The journalist, Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, has not been seen since March 2, and is reportedly facing accusations such as disseminating misleading content, the CPJ stated.
The press freedom organization emphasized that Shihab-Eldin’s detention reflects a trend of using national security laws to restrict critical reporting. Kuwaiti officials have not yet issued a public statement regarding his arrest. However, the Gulf states have previously detained individuals for sharing evidence of Iranian missile and drone strikes on their territory during the ongoing war.
Shihab-Eldin, who has contributed to the BBC, New York Times, and Al Jazeera, was last seen in Kuwait visiting his family on March 2. That day, he posted on his Substack platform a verified clip of a US F-15 jet plummeting near Kuwait City, alongside images he claimed depicted an American pilot who had safely landed in the al-Jahra region.
“We urge Kuwait to free Ahmed Shihab-Eldin and dismiss all charges against him,” said Sara Qudah, CPJ’s regional director. “Journalism is not a crime, and his case exemplifies the use of national security laws to suppress independent voices and shape public perception.” The CPJ described the accusations as “broad and vague, commonly used to silence journalists.”
Kuwait’s military and health ministries reported that Iranian attacks had resulted in three civilian deaths, two soldiers, and two border guards. Additionally, six US troops were killed, and three fighter jets were downed by Kuwaiti defenses. The CPJ noted that the latest legislation allows up to 10 years in prison for anyone who “spreads false information or makes statements undermining military entities.”
The interior ministry recently advised citizens to “avoid sharing unverified videos or rumors,” as per state media. It added that such actions are “being closely watched and addressed with strict measures.” Meanwhile, the information ministry announced that individuals accused of breaching media guidelines have been sent to prosecutors.
The BBC has sought comment from the Kuwaiti government. Earlier this month, the emir issued a decree to “protect military interests,” which includes penalties for those spreading false narratives about the armed forces.
