Bahrain: Opposition groups call for protests nationwide over Israeli peace deal September 15

Event

Opposition groups, including the February 14 Youth Coalition, have called for a 'Day of Rage' on Tuesday, September 15, over the Bahraini government agreeing to normalize relations with Israel. Protests are likely to occur in Shi'a strongholds outside central Manama.

A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in the vicinity of protest sites, along with disruptions to overland travel. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out. Further protests over the issue are likely over the near term.

Context

Following in the wake of the UAE and Israel's historic agreement in August, Bahrain and Israel announced on Friday, September 11, that they too will also normalize relations. While the agreement has been broadly backed by the government, the deal has been strongly opposed by many elements of the populace. Discontent is particularly strong among Shi'a opposition groups, who have long provided a significant threat to the Sunni-minority monarchy.

Advice

Those in Bahrain are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings, anticipate disruptions to transportation and services in areas affected by demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.