Ahmed Shihab-Eldin Acquitted After Detention in Kuwait

Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, an American-Kuwaiti journalist, has been acquitted of all charges after spending 52 days in detention in Kuwait. His arrest on March 3, 2026, occurred while he was visiting family and followed his social media posts related to the US-Israeli war with Iran, including footage of a US fighter jet crash. The charges against him included spreading false information, harming national security, and misusing his mobile phone.

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Shihab-Eldin's legal team, led by barrister Caoilfhionn Gallagher, confirmed the acquittal, stating, "We are relieved that Ahmed has been found innocent on all charges." The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) welcomed the verdict, emphasizing that the charges were vague and often used to silence independent journalists. The Kuwaiti authorities have not publicly commented on the case, but the CPJ noted that Shihab-Eldin's posts consisted of publicly available material, including a verified video of the crash.

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The arrest of Shihab-Eldin is part of a broader crackdown on free expression in Kuwait and other Gulf states amid escalating tensions related to the Iran conflict. Following the outbreak of hostilities, Kuwait's Ministry of Interior issued warnings against sharing unverified information about military activities, leading to the detention of numerous individuals for similar reasons. New legislation introduced in Kuwait has imposed severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to 10 years for disseminating information that could undermine military confidence.

Middle East Eye

Rights groups, including the Gulf Centre for Human Rights (GCHR) and Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, have criticized the Kuwaiti government's actions, arguing that the charges against Shihab-Eldin reflect a systematic effort to suppress free speech. They contend that the vague nature of the accusations serves to criminalize peaceful expression and public-interest reporting. The GCHR reported that many detainees have faced arbitrary detention and mistreatment.

The New Arab

Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the CPJ, stated, "Ahmed's freedom and safety remain our topmost priority and we will continue to closely monitor his case." Gallagher reiterated the focus on ensuring Shihab-Eldin's liberty and safety following his release. The Kuwaiti government has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the case, and the implications of the new laws on press freedom continue to raise concerns among international observers.

The Guardian

Following his acquittal, Shihab-Eldin is expected to be released imminently. His case has drawn attention to the precarious state of press freedom in Kuwait, prompting calls for greater protections for journalists in the region. As the situation evolves, rights organizations and media watchdogs will likely continue to advocate for the safety of journalists and the protection of free expression in Kuwait and beyond.

Al Monitor