Bahrain: Protests expected February 13-15

Event

Bahraini Shi'a clerics have called for broad participation in demonstrations commemorating the seventh anniversary of the February 14 uprising in 2011, which was the first day of widespread protests in Bahrain as part of the larger Arab Spring. Supporters of the predominantly Shi'a political opposition are expected to stage demonstrations from the evening of Tuesday, February 13 (local time), through Thursday, February 15, protesting recent arrests and alleged human rights violations committed by the Bahraini government.

Related commercial and localized transportation disruptions are expected during the protests, as well as a heightened police presence in affected areas. Security forces are likely to use tear gas and other means of force to disperse anti-government demonstrations, which may result in clashes between protesters and security forces.

Context

Bahrain's Shi'a Muslims accuse the royal family and the government of marginalizing their community. Although not authorized by the Bahraini authorities, protests regularly take place (especially on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays) and police units often use force and tear gas to disperse crowds. Protesters sometimes respond by throwing Molotov cocktails, detonating improvised explosive devices (IEDs), attempting to block roads, or burning tires.

Anti-government protests erupted in Bahrain on February 14, 2011 (termed the "Day of Rage"), particularly in Shi'a areas, as part of the broader Arab Spring movement. Protesters clashed with security forces, resulting in dozens of casualties.

Advice

Individuals in Bahrain are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all gatherings and protests due to potential violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

In general, various Western governments advise their citizens in Bahrain to remain extremely vigilant at all times while in the country due to the extant terrorist threat and to avoid public places lacking adequate security. Moreover, IED attacks often target security forces and other government installations; individuals in Bahrain are consequently advised to stay away from sites that are deemed particularly likely to be targeted (e.g. ministries, public buildings, police patrols, military zones, etc.).