Bahrain: Unauthorized demonstrations December 1

Event

Shi'a opposition groups in Bahrain have called for protests to take place on Friday, December 1, in the villages of Diraz, Sitra, Karkabad, Ma'ameer, Al-Markh, Al-Dair, Malkiya, Saar, and Buri. As public demonstrations are not authorized by the Bahraini authorities, police units may use force and tear gas to disperse crowds. Protesters could potentially respond by throwing Molotov cocktails, detonating improvised explosive devices (IEDs), attempting to block roads, or burning tires. Associated transportation disruptions are possible.

Context

Bahrain's Shi'as make up a majority of the population but are governed by a Sunni royal family and a Sunni government, which Shi'as accuse of marginalizing their community. Protests often take place in locations across Bahrain on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and regularly result in violent clashes. In late May, five activists protesting in Diraz were killed during clashes with security forces.

On November 27, it was reported that the health of Bahrain's supreme Shi'a cleric, Ayatollah Sheikh Isa Qassim - currently under house arrest - has deteriorated and that his condition could be fatal. This news could prompt this week's protests to be particularly large.

Advice

Individuals present in Bahrain are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence.