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 Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, an American-Kuwaiti media professional, has been held in custody by Kuwaiti authorities following his remarks on videos and images connected to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. He has not been spotted since 2 March and is reportedly under investigation for allegations such as disseminating inaccurate information.
CPJ emphasized the need for Shihab-Eldin’s swift and unconditional release, highlighting that the charges against him are described as “general and ambiguous accusations often used to suppress free press.” The journalist, who has contributed to outlets like the BBC and Al Jazeera, was last seen while visiting family in Kuwait on that date.
“Journalism is not a crime, and Shihab-Eldin’s case shows how national security laws are increasingly being weaponized to limit critical reporting,” stated Sara Qudah, CPJ’s regional director.
Kuwaiti officials have not yet responded to the CPJ’s claims. However, the country and other Gulf Arab states have previously detained individuals for sharing footage depicting Iranian missile and drone strikes on their territory during the ongoing war.
According to Kuwait’s military and health ministry, Iranian attacks have resulted in the deaths of three civilians, two soldiers, and two border guards. Additionally, six US service members have been killed, and three fighter jets were mistakenly downed by Kuwaiti air defenses.
Shihab-Eldin shared a verified clip of a US F-15 jet crashing near Kuwait City on his Substack platform, along with photos he claimed showed an American pilot who had ejected. The CPJ noted that these posts were part of his coverage of the conflict.
Kuwait’s interior ministry recently asked the public to “avoid spreading unconfirmed videos and images,” as per state media. It also mentioned that such actions are “being closely observed and addressed with strict legal measures.” The information ministry has since indicated that those accused of breaching media guidelines are now facing prosecutors.
Last month, Kuwait’s emir issued a decree targeting “the protection of military interests,” which allows up to 10 years in prison for anyone spreading news or rumors intended to damage public trust in military operations.
