Manama: Bahraini authorities are facing international scrutiny following revelations by Human Rights Watch of a widespread crackdown on pro-Palestine protests in the country since October 2023. The protests were sparked by Israel’s aggression in Gaza, resulting in arrest
According to Human Rights Watch, at least 57 individuals, including 25 children, have been arrested in connection with the pro-Palestine demonstrations. The Americans for Democracy and Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) reports that 36 people, including 23 children, remain in detention as of December 15. The arrests also targeted individuals involved in online pro-Palestine advocacy.
The arrests and harassment of participants, including children, have raised concerns about Bahrain’s response to peaceful activism and its alignment with regional states suppressing dissent. Human Rights Watch interviewed mothers of detained children, activists, and reviewed media documenting the protests, revealing the authorities’ use of force and violent tactics.
The crackdown reportedly escalated with the use of tear gas, stun grenades, batons, and buckshot against protesters. Instances of police abuse resulting in injuries were documented, with detainees displaying bruises and wounds. One activist recounted an incident where riot police severely beat an arrested man.
Social media posts supporting Palestine became a basis for authorities to call individuals in for questioning, as seen in the arrest of Ebrahim Sharif. The denial of applications for peaceful marches on security grounds was also reported.
Mothers recounted incidents where their sons were arrested while attending pro-Palestine marches. Families have been denied visitation rights, and detainees, including children, reportedly faced psychological and physical torture to extract confessions. Disturbingly, arrests extended to children who did not even participate in the protests.
It is worth noting that Bahrain normalized relations with Israel in 2020, and this recent suppression of pro-Palestinian voices aligns with the country’s new foreign policies. So far Bahrain is the only Middle Eastern country to become part of the U.S.-led coalition against Yemeni Houthis, who have been targeting ships in the Red Sea going to or coming from Israel as a sign of solidarity with the Palestinians who have been the victims of relentless Israeli attacks since October 7.
It is noteworthy that since the start of Israeli aggression against Gaza on October 7, the number of Palestinian martyrs has reached over 22,000. More than 53,000 individuals have been injured, including over 8,000 children and more than 6,000 women.
Among those martyred in Israeli bombings, there are 310 members of medical staff and 100 journalists. Additionally, 35 personnel from the Civil Defense have also lost their lives.
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