Up to 70 British nationals have reportedly been detained in the United Arab Emirates for taking photos or videos of Iranian missile and drone attacks during the ongoing conflict.
The figure comes from a campaign group, Detained in Dubai, which warned the number could rise further, potentially reaching 100 or more as enforcement intensifies.
Those detained are accused of violating the UAE’s strict cybercrime laws, which prohibit sharing content deemed harmful to public order or the country’s image.
However, the UK Foreign Office said it is currently assisting only a “small number” of British citizens in connection with such cases, with five individuals confirmed to be receiving consular support.
Some detainees have already been released, but others remain under investigation.
The arrests come as the Iran war has brought missile and drone strikes into Gulf states, including the UAE, where residents and tourists have captured footage of explosions and damage. 
Campaigners have described the laws as “draconian,” warning that even sharing or filming real-time events can lead to detention, fines or prison sentences.
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