A new blasphemy law in Kuwait is causing concern in the United States.

Earlier this month, Kuwait lawmakers approved a measure that would mandate the death penalty in cases of blasphemy against Allah, the prophet Mohammad, or the Koran.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom called the law alarming and contrary to international human rights standards.

Kuwait is a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council and has been a strong U.S. ally.

The approval follows a high-profile case in Kuwait of suspected blasphemy on Twitter that caused an uproar. The plan still needs approval by Kuwait's emir before it becomes law.

Around 85 percent of Kuwait's inhabitants are thought to be Muslim.