Bahrain regime restricts Muharram ceremonies, intensifies Shia repression

Bahrain regime restricts Muharram ceremonies, intensifies Shia repression
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Bahraini authorities have once again imposed restrictions on Muharram mourning ceremonies, particularly the Ashura rituals, escalating repression against the country’s Shia Muslim community, Abna 24 reported.

Security forces have removed black flags and tents, with officers disguised as municipal workers to limit gatherings. Preachers and elegy reciters have faced harassment, arrests, and summons, especially during the first week of Muharram.

Interior Minister Rashid Al Khalifa warned that Muharram processions could be used for political purposes aimed at weakening national unity and destabilizing the regime. Critics, including Ibrahim al-Aradi of the February 14 Coalition, rejected the minister’s claims, emphasizing that Ashura observances in Bahrain predate the Al Khalifa rule and accusing official media of distorting the reality.

The targeting of Shia Muslims intensifies annually during Muharram, with restrictions on religious symbols such as headbands and shirts bearing mourning slogans. These measures have notably increased since the 2011 uprising, reflecting ongoing sectarian and political repression in Bahrain.