Bahraini Citizens Reported Barred from Arbaeen Pilgrimage Amid New Travel Restrictions

Bahraini Citizens Reported Barred from Arbaeen Pilgrimage Amid New Travel Restrictions
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Restrictions on religious travel in Bahrain have sparked criticism from opposition groups and human rights advocates, as thousands of citizens are reportedly being prevented from traveling for the Arbaeen pilgrimage.

According to the Bahrain Mirror news outlet, Bahraini opposition figures said authorities have imposed broad travel restrictions ahead of Arbaeen, preventing many citizens from visiting Karbala in Iraq and other holy sites in Iran.

The report said the travel bans, imposed since last June, have directly affected Shia citizens seeking to take part in one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.

Critics said Manama’s security justifications lack credibility, noting that other Gulf countries continue to operate flights to these destinations normally.

Opponents of the measure described the restrictions as politically and sectarian motivated, saying they violate citizens’ right to visit religious sites and practice their faith freely.