Kuwait Enacts Anti-terror and Military Protection Laws to Bolster National Security

Kuwait has enacted two new decree laws aimed at strengthening national security and safeguarding military interests as the country responds to evolving regional and cross-border threats.

The Public Prosecution announced the implementation of the legislation—Decree Law No. 47 of 2026 on combating terrorism and Decree Law No. 13 of 2026 on protecting the supreme interests of military authorities. Both laws have come into force following their publication in the official gazette, Kuwait Alyoum.

Speaking during a media briefing, Fahd Al-Mutairi said the measures reflect Kuwait’s commitment to maintaining stability and addressing increasingly complex security challenges. He noted that the new legal framework adopts a comprehensive approach combining prevention, deterrence and protection, and was developed through coordination between key state bodies, including the Ministries of Justice, Interior and Foreign Affairs.

The anti-terrorism law establishes a modern legal framework with expanded definitions of terrorist acts. These include attacks targeting individuals, infrastructure, transportation networks and cybersecurity systems. The law also differentiates between terrorist organisations, individuals and threats, while extending jurisdiction to offences committed abroad if they affect Kuwait’s security.

Penalties have been significantly increased, with certain offences punishable by life imprisonment or the death penalty. The law also criminalises the failure to report terrorist activities, while allowing leniency for individuals who cooperate with authorities before an offence is carried out.

In addition, the legislation introduces preventive measures under the concept of “terrorist risk”, enabling authorities to act before crimes occur through court-approved monitoring and rehabilitation programmes. A national counterterrorism committee will also be established to coordinate strategy and ensure compliance with international obligations.

The second decree law focuses on protecting military interests by creating a legal framework to safeguard sensitive sites, information and operations. It prohibits unauthorised entry into military areas, restricts the dissemination of military-related data and requires public cooperation in facilitating military movements.

The law also criminalises the spread of false information about military entities if it harms their morale or reputation, with penalties reaching life imprisonment in serious cases.

Al-Mutairi said the Public Prosecution will have exclusive jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute offences under the two laws, ensuring procedural efficiency and unified legal oversight. He described the measures as a significant step in modernising Kuwait’s legal system, balancing national security priorities with legal safeguards and reinforcing the shared responsibility of protecting the country through public awareness and adherence to the law.

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