The Bahrain Center for Human Rights (BCHR) expresses grave concern over the ongoing systematic suppression of fundamental freedoms in Bahrain, particularly targeting those expressing solidarity with Gaza and Lebanon.
BCHR has received information that an extensive campaign of summons and arrests have been undertaken against numerous social media activists, writers, and citizens. Notable cases include the detention of prominent figures Basma Al-Qassab and Hussein Al-Sammak, along with leaders in the Shiite community such as Mr. Majeed Al-Mishaal, Sheikh Fadel Al-Zaki, and Sheikh Ali Al-Mutaghawi. Members of the Anti-Normalization Association were also summoned and coerced into pledging against organizing solidarity events before their release.
The authorities have expanded their restrictions to religious gatherings, explicitly warning funeral establishment owners against hosting any solidarity activities for Lebanon and Gaza. This resulted in the temporary arrest of the head of the Ansar al-Haq funeral and the leader of a mosque which announced the death of Hezbollah’s Secretary General. Severe limitations were also imposed on Friday prayers, particularly in Duraz, where non-residents were barred from entry and worshippers were met with toxic gasses and arrests.
These actions are further implicated by an even greater show of disregard for the freedom of peaceful assembly. The nationwide banning of harmless showcases of solidarity by the people of Bahrain for Gaza and Lebanon is worsened by the fact that officials have resorted to suppressive measures similar to those employed in Duraz.
In light of this, Nedal Al-Salman, President of BCHR states: “Freedom of assembly and opinion are the cornerstones of a just society. When we allow people to gather peacefully and express their views without fear, we strengthen the foundation of democracy and human dignity.”
BCHR calls upon the Bahraini authorities to:
- Immediately end all forms of harassment against activists, religious figures, and citizens exercising their right to express solidarity;
- Release all individuals detained for peaceful assembly and expression;
- Lift all restrictions on religious gatherings and peaceful demonstrations; and
- Stop the use of toxic gasses against peaceful protesters.