Bahrain: Protests possible in Shi'a areas following arrest of Shi'a cleric May 22

Event

Anti-government protests are possible nationwide in the coming days following the arrest of a prominent Shi'a cleric on May 22. Following the announcement of the arrest, protests notably occurred in Sehla, Diraz, and Sanabis. Additional demonstrations denouncing the arrest may take place in other predominantly Shi'a areas over the coming days, such as Abu Saiba, Al-Dair, Al-Markh, Bani Jamra, Buri, Karbabad, Karranah, Karzakkan, Ma'ameer, Malkiya, Saar, Shakhura, and Sitra. Anti-government unrest usually increases during significant anniversaries related to the 2011 uprising or following the arrest of prominent activists or opposition leaders.

A heightened security presence should be anticipated in predominantly Shi'a locations. Localized traffic disruptions are possible near any protest site. Demonstrators frequently burn tires, block roads, and clash with security forces. Police often forcibly disperse protesters; officers could use tear gas, stun grenades, and possibly live ammunition to break up demonstrations.

Context

Tensions between the Sunni-led government and the Shi'a opposition remain high as authorities continue to arrest Shi'a leaders and religious figures, blacklist Shi'a organizations, and revoke the citizenship of activists. The government routinely claims the unrest is sponsored by Iran and alleges attacks against security forces are the work of individuals with ties to the Iran-backed Lebanese Shi'a group Hizballah. However, opposition supporters have rejected this claim and, in turn, accuse the government of using the specter of Iranian interference as a pretext to crack down on the opposition and its supporters. Authorities in Bahrain have become intolerant of any form of dissent or criticism of the government. Critics have accused the government of silencing opposition groups and suppressing freedom of expression. The government crackdown has, in turn, led to more protests and violence.

Advice

Consider delaying nonessential travel in likely protest areas. Avoid all protests due to the potential for violence. If a protest forms nearby, leave the area immediately, and seek shelter in a secure location. Do not take photographs. Allow extra time if driving near the affected areas; consider planning alternative routes around potential demonstration sites.