In brief
Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, a U.S.-Kuwaiti journalist detained for sharing images related to the U.S.-Israeli conflict, has been acquitted of all charges after 52 days in detention. The ruling has been welcomed by press freedom advocates, and concerns linger over the treatment of journalists in Kuwait.
An American-Kuwaiti journalist who was detained by authorities in Kuwait last month after he re-posted videos and images related to the US-Israeli war with Iran has been acquitted, according to his international legal team.
Ahmed Shihab-Eldin was understood to have been charged with spreading false information, harming national security, and misusing his mobile phone. On Thursday, London-based barrister Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC confirmed that Shihab-Eldin was found innocent of all charges and was expected to be released imminently.
The Kuwaiti authorities have not commented on the case, but it has been reported that they detained hundreds of people for sharing footage documenting Iranian attacks during the war.
Shihab-Eldin, who contributed to the BBC, New York Times, and Al Jazeera, was last seen on March 2, when he shared a verified video of a U.S. fighter jet crash. Following his detention, he faced charges based on re-posting verified images from international media.
A statement from Gallagher expressed relief at the acquittal, stating, We are relieved that, after 52 days in detention, Ahmed has been found innocent on all charges. Our focus now is on ensuring the liberty and safety of our client.
Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists, also voiced relief at the verdict, emphasizing that Shihab-Eldin's freedom and safety are priorities for their organization.
Earlier this month, the Kuwaiti interior ministry urged the public to avoid sharing unverified videos, asserting that such actions were being closely monitored and would be met with legal action.
