Bahrain: Anti-Israel protest underway in the vicinity of Manama, Jan. 15

Event

Social media accounts affiliated with Bahrain's opposition reported that an unannounced anti-Israel protest is ongoing in Manama Jan. 15. The exact location of the demonstration is currently unclear; however, it is likely taking place at or near Manama's Block 301 area. The protest is in response to the appointment of an Israeli charge d'affaires at its embassy in Bahrain.

Attendance at the demonstration appears small in number and is unlikely to be overly disruptive. However, precedent suggests that security forces may forcibly disperse protesters; officers could use tear gas, stun grenades, and possibly live ammunition to break up the demonstration if it does become overly disruptive.

Context

Bahraini and Israeli authorities agreed to establish official diplomatic ties and to normalize relations in late 2020. Bahrain became the second Persian Gulf monarchy to normalize ties with Israel. While the government may be broadly supportive of normalizing relations with Israel, elements of the Bahraini populace remain opposed to the move. Opposition cuts across sectarian divides, posing a threat to the Sunni-minority monarchy, which has faced sustained Shi'a-led unrest since 2011. Protests in opposition to the deal have been a frequent occurrence since the Bahraini government normalized relations.

Advice

Avoid the area out of an abundance of caution. In previous demonstrations, security forces have not hesitated to respond with heavy-handed tactics, including the use of live ammunition and tear gas.