US-Kuwaiti journalist detained in Kuwait after social media posts, watchdog says

US-Kuwaiti Journalist Detained in Kuwait After Social Media Posts, Watchdog Says

An American-Kuwaiti journalist, Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, has been taken into custody by Kuwaiti authorities following his online commentary on footage tied to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported. The journalist, who has contributed to outlets such as the BBC, New York Times, and Al Jazeera, was last seen on 2 March while visiting family in Kuwait. CPJ highlighted that Shihab-Eldin is accused of disseminating misleading information and possibly endangering national security.

CPJ stated that the charges against him include spreading false information and misusing his mobile phone, which it described as “general and broad allegations often used to suppress critical voices.” The group urged Kuwait to release Shihab-Eldin without conditions. As of now, Kuwaiti officials have not provided a public response.

Context of Detentions in Gulf Arab States

Kuwait and other Gulf nations have detained individuals for circulating videos and images depicting Iranian strikes on their territory during the conflict. According to government reports, these attacks resulted in three civilian deaths, two military personnel, and two border guards. Additionally, six US service members were killed, and three American fighter jets were mistakenly downed by Kuwaiti defenses.

“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,” said CPJ regional director Sara Qudah.

Earlier this month, the Kuwaiti interior ministry instructed citizens to avoid sharing unverified content, emphasizing that such actions are “closely monitored and met with strict enforcement.” The information ministry also announced that those accused of violating media rules have been forwarded to prosecutors for legal proceedings.

Legislation Targeting Military Entities

Last month, Kuwait’s emir issued a decree to “secure and protect the supreme interests of military entities.” Under this law, individuals who spread news or false claims aimed at weakening public trust in the military could face up to 10 years in prison. CPJ noted that this framework has been used to justify detentions, including Shihab-Eldin’s, as part of efforts to limit independent reporting during the conflict.