'Fines, imprisonment, deportation': Irish embassy warns sharing of Middle East attack footage now illegal

The Irish embassy has warned that the sharing of footage of attacks in the Middle East is now illegal and can lead to serious implications.

The Irish Embassy in the UAE has informed Irish citizens that any photos or posts to social media of drone or missile attacks are now deemed illegal by local state authorities.

These rules also apply to Qatar and Kuwait.

"Irish citizens who violate these laws may be subject to fines, imprisonment, and deportation," the embassy said in a post on social media.

"We request that all Irish citizens continue to follow the advice of local authorities and follow official news sources," it continued. 

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— Irish Embassy UAE (@IrelandEmbUAE) March 16, 2026

The warning comes just a few days after a British tourist was charged under the UAE’s cybercrime laws for sharing videos of missile activity and explosions, according to The Journal. 

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Tourists heading for the Middle East from Dublin Airport have been told that disruptions are likely following a fresh spate of attacks on Dubai International Airport. 

Earlier this morning, an Emirates flight with 172 passengers on board had to turn back because of the closure of the airspace over the Gulf city.

Dubai International Airport has suspended operations after a drone struck a fuel tank, causing a fire to start.

Authorities have said it was quickly contained, with no injuries reported.