Kuwaiti Court Acquits US-Kuwaiti Journalist Ahmed Shihab-Eldin After 52 Days
Kuwait’s court cleared US-Kuwaiti journalist Ahmed Shihab-Eldin of all charges after 52 days in detention.
Why it matters: The case puts a spotlight on the legal risks journalists face when covering national security topics in restrictive environments. Shihab-Eldin's acquittal raises critical questions about press freedom and the use of legal threats against independent reporting.
- Ahmed Shihab-Eldin was arrested March 3, 2026, for posting verified Iran war-related videos.
- He faced charges of spreading false information and harming national security under new military news laws.
- On April 23, 2026, a Kuwait court acquitted him, prompting his release after nearly two months.
- Rights groups say such charges are often used to target independent journalists in Kuwait.
Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, an award-winning journalist with dual US and Kuwaiti citizenship, was detained in Kuwait on March 3, 2026, while visiting family. His arrest followed the Ministry of Interior’s warning to the public against sharing information related to Iranian attacks, a move that coincided with heightened military tensions in the region (Committee to Protect Journalists).
Authorities accused Shihab-Eldin of spreading false information, harming national security, and misusing his mobile phone—allegations stemming from his posting of publicly available, verified videos regarding military activities, including a U.S. fighter jet crash near a base in Kuwait. These charges are frequently used against journalists covering sensitive subjects.
While in detention, Shihab-Eldin faced possible prosecution under Law No. 13 of 2026, enacted on March 15, which allows sentences of up to 10 years for the publication of military-related information deemed damaging to public trust (CPJ).
On April 23, the court acquitted Shihab-Eldin of all charges. His counsel, Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC, stated, “Our focus now is upon ensuring the liberty and safety of our client, and we will provide more details once they can be confirmed.”
Press advocates see the case as emblematic. Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists, said, "We are relieved that Ahmed Shihab-Eldin has been found innocent after 52 days in detention." She added that his “freedom and safety remain our topmost priority.” (CPJ)
Shihab-Eldin’s case highlights the tightening legal landscape for journalists in Kuwait, especially under new laws targeting military reporting during national security crises.
By the numbers:
- 52 days — Length of Shihab-Eldin’s detention.
- March 15, 2026 — Date Kuwait enacted up to 10-year prison terms for military-related news.
- March 3, 2026 — Date of Shihab-Eldin’s arrest.
Yes, but: Details on the conditions of his detention and specifics of the case evidence remain unclear.
What's next: Advocates say they will continue to monitor Shihab-Eldin’s liberty and safety following his release.