A Kuwaiti newspaper ran a disturbing headline this week of a drone that secretly entered Kuwait at dawn. The report caused a big fuss and there were many opinions about the authenticity of the news. Some said the report was just a rumor to stir up strife, while others believed the news. I think that in all cases, it is a message of alarming danger, especially in light of the tense situation in the region.
After the news spread, a number of MPs called on the government to issue an explanatory statement confirming whether the report was correct and what measures were being taken. MP Mohammed Al-Dallal called on the government to take all necessary measures to protect Kuwait and provide internal security, stressing the importance of the formation of a crisis and disaster management team.
The MP added that the terrorist attacks that took place on Saudi soil are not far from Kuwait. He said we do not accept them in Gulf countries and the recent security breach by a drone and approaching sensitive sites in Kuwait is dangerous, especially as these aircraft can carry weapons that can cause great harm to people and property.
I think it is normal for everyone to be concerned, because the situation in the Gulf region is very tense. If the government is asking people not to listen to rumors, it is natural for the public to look for an immediate and clear statement from the government, especially since this issue is a purely security incident related to state sovereignty and national security.
In recent years, the use of drones has become widespread in the world, making them a violation of privacy and a breach of security when used without the consent of official state authorities. I think drones pose a real security threat. For example, on the evening of April 28, 2019, Gatwick Airport had to close temporarily due to an unconfirmed sighting of a drone. The police arrested two persons in connection with the "criminal use of drones".
This event had raised questions about solutions to prevent a recurrence of such an incident. There have also been cases around the world in which drones have been used to transport contraband across borders. Sadly, this type of aircraft has become easy to use, along with a significant decline in prices in the past few years.
The report in Kuwait caused an uproar in society and people are right, as it raised questions about a security breach. The Cabinet held a meeting to discuss the situation, stressing the interest of the government to follow up the situation, but the issue also witnessed a large parliamentary reaction amid demands for a firm government position towards this breach. Acting Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Anas Al-Saleh said security leaders have begun to conduct necessary investigations regarding the observation of the drone and the measures that have been taken.
Personally, I see a drone as a danger to the safety of air transport, so we need to take serious measures to stop the irresponsible and dangerous use of this type of aircraft and monitor its users. I believe that the public reaction is a normal response by anyone who fears for their country's security and stability, whether citizen or expatriate, and state security cannot be disputed.
By Muna Al-Fuzai
muna@kuwaittimes.net