Bahrain: Opposition protests planned for May 25

Event

A number of unauthorized protests organized by Shi’ite opposition groups are planned to take place in Diraz on Thursday, May 25. Participants are expected to gather in Sanabis at 16:00 (local time), the Saada Mosque in A’ali at 17:00, and in Sanabis against at 20:00. Expect increased security measures around the demonstrations. Violent clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

The groups are protesting against the violent raid in Diraz on Tuesday, May 23. At least five people were killed and a number of other individuals arrested after demonstrators clashed with security forces during a sit-in.

Bahrain's Shi'ite Muslims regularly accuse the royal family and the government of marginalizing their community. Protests are a frequent occurrence across Bahrain, particularly on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and often result in violent clashes. As public demonstrations are not authorized by the Bahraini authorities, police units are known to use force and tear gas to disperse crowds.

Advice

Individuals present in Bahrain are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations and to keep abreast of the situation.