UAE orders arrest of 35 over misleading social media posts amid Iran attacks
text_fields
UAE authorities have ordered the arrest of 35 people, including 19 Indian nationals, over social media posts linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict, according to PTI.
The Attorney-General, Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, directed that the suspects be referred to a fast-track trial on charges of spreading false or misleading material online. Prosecutors allege the content harmed national defence interests and promoted narratives supportive of military action against the country.
The arrests were issued in two phases over the weekend. Ten individuals, including two Indians, were named on Saturday. A further 25 people, among them 17 Indians, were ordered detained on Sunday.
Authorities said the case followed intensified monitoring of digital platforms amid heightened regional tensions. Investigators concluded that the accused operated in three separate groups.
One group is accused of sharing genuine footage of missile interceptions and related incidents, adding commentary and audio effects that prosecutors say amplified fear and exposed sensitive defence information.
A second group allegedly circulated manipulated videos generated using artificial intelligence, as well as recycled clips from incidents abroad presented as events inside the UAE. Officials said some posts included fabricated explosions, missiles, national symbols and altered dates to lend credibility to false claims.
The third group is accused of posting material praising a foreign state engaged in military action in the region, including messages supportive of its leadership and armed forces.
The Public Prosecution has begun formal investigations and ordered the suspects held in custody pending further inquiry.
The Attorney-General said misuse of digital platforms to spread misleading content that threatens public security or reveals defence-related information constitutes a criminal offence, particularly during a period of active regional conflict.