18 May 2017 | 01:22 PM UTC
Bahrain: Unauthorized protests and possible clashes May 18-20
Unauthorized protests from May 18 to May 20 could lead to clashes between protesters and security forces
Event
Shi’ite opposition groups in Bahrain have called for protests from Thursday, May 18, until Saturday, May 20. On Thursday, May 18, protests are scheduled to take place in Al Markh at 19:00 (local time) and in Sitra at 20:00. On May 19, protests are expected in Al Musalla, Bilad Al Qadeem, Abu Saiba, Sehla, Nabih Saleh, and Al Markh after Friday afternoon prayers and in Barbar at 19:00. On Saturday, May 20, protests are scheduled to take place in Bani Jamra at 19:00 and in Karranah at 19:30.
As public demonstrations are not authorized by the Bahraini authorities, police units may use force and tear gas to disperse crowds. Protesters could respond by throwing Molotov cocktails, detonating improvised explosive devices (IEDs), attempting to block roads, or burning tires. Localized transportation disruptions are possible.
Context
Bahrain's Shi'ite Muslims accuse the royal family and the government of marginalizing their community. Protests often take place in locations across Bahrain on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and regularly result in violent clashes.
Advice
Individuals present in Bahrain are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations and to keep abreast of the situation.
