Dubai influencers posting content of Iran war could face years in prison for breaking important rule
Topics: News, US News, World News, Iran, Israel
Gerrard Kaonga
Featured Image Credit: Fadel SENNA / AFP via Getty Images
Topics: News, US News, World News, Iran, Israel
Influencers in the UAE have been warned about the content they share on the internet following the new conflict involving Iran.
The strikes on Iran by Israel and the US has resulted in much uncertainty in the Middle East region.
After multiple attacks on February 28, Iran retaliated by targeting US bases in neighboring countries, including American ally, the United Arab Emirates.
Popular city Dubai and the country as a whole has been directly impacted from the new conflict with Iran, as missile debris has fallen across the popular destination.
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Some social media footage has shown some of the aftermath from these missile attacks, showing some buildings damaged and on fire after missiles have been intercepted.
However, the influencer community in the UAE has been warned by the government of making specific kinds of content following these incidents.
According to a Telegraph report, the country’s government has told the community that any material considered to be harmful to ‘public order’, ‘national unity’ and the ‘reputation of the state’ could result in fines up to $77,000 or imprisonment.
In addition to this, the UAE has laws which are considered strict regarding content that can be posted online.
The UK Government website has stated: “It is illegal to post material, including videos and photographs, online that is critical of the UAE government, companies or individuals, or which relates to incidents in the UAE.
“This includes material which appears to abuse, ridicule or criticize the country or its authorities. Material that is culturally insensitive may also be considered illegal.”
This means that despite the general expectation of content from influencers during this trying time, many may be limited in what videos they can make and share legally.
The Detained in Dubai campaign group has previously said it has represented several foreign nations who have been detained or fined over tweets, Facebook posts, Instagram stories and WhatsApp messages.
One lifestyle influencer who deleted a video that showcased burning debris spoke to the Telegraph on the promise of anonymity.
They said: “The Dubai authorities want to control the narrative, that’s for sure. There are strict rules about what you can say here.
“The authorities in Dubai don’t want panic to spread from people posting misinformation. It’s in their interests to keep people calm and I can understand that.”
The influencer said they intended not to upload any more videos out of respect for the UAE’s rules.