US-Kuwaiti journalist held in Kuwait over social media posts acquitted, lawyers say

April 23, 2026

American-Kuwaiti journalist Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, who had been detained in Kuwait for over seven weeks, was acquitted of all charges related to reposting images and videos of US-Israeli conflict with Iran. The journalist, who has worked for major outlets including the BBC and New York Times, was arrested after sharing verified footage of a US fighter jet that was mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses near Kuwait City. His detention came amid broader Kuwaiti government crackdowns on social media sharing of war-related content, with authorities detaining hundreds of people and implementing strict new legislation punishing the spread of military-related information.

Who is affected

Ahmed Shihab-Eldin (American-Kuwaiti journalist)
His family in Kuwait whom he was visiting
His international legal team, including London-based barrister Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and its CEO Jodie Ginsberg
Hundreds of other people detained in Kuwait and other Gulf Arab states for sharing similar footage

What action is being taken

Kuwaiti authorities are closely monitoring and dealing firmly with violations related to spreading rumors or sharing unverified videos and images, referring violators to relevant authorities for legal action
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is continuing to closely monitor Shihab-Eldin's case
The legal team is working on ensuring the liberty and safety of their client

Why it matters

This case highlights the tension between press freedom and national security concerns during wartime, particularly in Gulf states. The strict new Kuwaiti legislation imposing up to 10-year prison sentences for disseminating military-related information represents a significant restriction on journalistic activity and public discourse. The case has broader implications for hundreds of others detained for similar actions and raises concerns about the ability of journalists to report on military incidents, even when sharing verified information already published by international media outlets.

What's next

Shihab-Eldin is expected to be released imminently following his acquittal
The legal team will provide more details once the client's liberty and safety can be confirmed
The CPJ will continue to closely monitor his case

Read full article from source: BBC