Bahraini Authorities Bar Shi’a Worshippers from Friday Prayers, Sparking Outcry

Bahraini Shi’a worshippers were prevented from attending Friday prayers at the largest Shi’a mosque in the country, Imam al-Sadeq Mosque, on two occasions in June, according to Human Rights Watch on the 7th of july.

The restrictions followed after the execution of two Shi’a Bahrainis in Saudi Arabia, which led to protests in Bahrain. Checkpoints were set up in and around the al-Diraz neighborhood, and authorities checked the identity documents of those trying to access the mosque.

 Non-Bahrainis and residents of nearby areas were reportedly allowed to enter while Shi’a Bahrainis were blocked. Human Rights Watch called for an end to the discrimination against Bahrain’s Shi’a community, which has been ongoing for years.