Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, a dual U.S.-Kuwaiti journalist known for contributions to outlets including The New York Times, BBC, and Al Jazeera, was acquitted of all charges after being detained in Kuwait for 52 days. He was arrested on March 3, 2026, shortly after sharing a verified video and images online depicting a U.S. F-15 fighter jet crash near Kuwait—a plane reportedly mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during regional hostilities involving Iran, the U.S., and Israel. Shihab-Eldin faced charges of spreading false information, harming national security, and misusing his mobile phone. His acquittal was confirmed by legal representatives and family members on April 23, though Kuwaiti authorities did not issue an official statement. The Committee to Protect Journalists, which had advocated for his release, welcomed the verdict. The case unfolded amid heightened security measures in Kuwait, including public warnings against sharing military-related content and new legal provisions allowing up to 10 years in prison for undermining military prestige. The U.S. State Department acknowledged awareness of the detention and indicated consular assistance was provided.

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