US-Kuwaiti journalist detained in Kuwait after social media posts, watchdog says
US-Kuwaiti Journalist Detained in Kuwait After Social Media Posts, Watchdog Says
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported that an American-Kuwaiti journalist, Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, has been held by Kuwaiti authorities following his commentary on videos and images linked to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Shihab-Eldin has not been seen since March 2nd and is reportedly charged with disseminating misleading information, according to the press freedom organization.
Kuwait’s military and health ministry confirmed that Iranian strikes had resulted in three civilian deaths, two soldiers, and two border guards. Additionally, six US personnel were killed, and three American fighter jets were accidentally downed by Kuwaiti air defenses. The CPJ highlighted that Shihab-Eldin’s case involves vague accusations of harming national security and misusing his mobile device, which are often employed to suppress independent media.
Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, a contributor to BBC, New York Times, and Al Jazeera, was last spotted with his family in Kuwait on March 2nd. That day, he posted on Substack a verified clip of a US F-15 jet crashing near Kuwait City, along with images he claimed depicted an American pilot who had ejected into the al-Jahra region. The CPJ emphasized that the charges against him are overly broad and commonly used to target journalists.
“We urge Kuwait to free Ahmed Shihab-Eldin and dismiss all charges against him,” stated Sara Qudah, CPJ’s regional director. “Journalism is not a crime, and his situation exemplifies the use of national security laws to stifle critical reporting and control public narratives.”
The Kuwaiti interior ministry had previously directed citizens to avoid sharing unverified content, as reported by state media. It reiterated that such actions are being scrutinized and met with strict legal consequences. Meanwhile, the information ministry stated that those accused of violating media guidelines have been forwarded to prosecutors.
Last month, Kuwait’s emir issued a decree targeting the protection of military interests. The CPJ explained that the law allows up to a decade in prison for anyone spreading false news or statements that could damage public trust in military operations.
The BBC has reached out to the Kuwaiti government for further details. While no immediate response has been given, the CPJ continues to advocate for Shihab-Eldin’s release, framing his case as part of a larger trend of using security measures to curb free expression in the region.
