Bahrain Imposes New Rules on Ashura Observance

The Bahraini government has introduced new regulations for the observance of Ashura, a significant religious occasion for Shiite Muslims. These measures add to a series of actions the government has taken against its Shiite citizens amid ongoing sectarian tensions linked to the conflict involving Iran.

Bahrain, governed by a Sunni Muslim monarchy, has a population primarily consisting of Twelver Shiites. This sect of Islam is also practiced in Iran. Ashura, which marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, typically includes events like processions and religious sermons. Globally, Shiites commemorate Ashura on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar.

Traditionally, Ashura observances span 10 days. However, Bahraini authorities have ordered that the celebrations be cut in half this year. Additionally, processions must end by midnight, except in Manama, where they are allowed until 2 a.m. Previously, these public street processions could last all night until dawn.

In another move, the Bahraini government has prohibited its citizens from traveling to Iran and Iraq indefinitely. Although this travel restriction does not specifically mention Ashura, it significantly affects the numerous Bahrainis who annually pilgrimage to Karbala, Iraq, during this period. Karbala holds profound historical and religious importance for Shiite Islam.

Bahrain, a strategic U.S. ally hosting the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, has been targeted by Iranian drones and missiles during the recent conflict. The Bahraini government accuses Iran of instigating unrest among its Shiite population. The state has a history of suppressing dissent, evidenced by its severe response to the pro-democracy protests in 2011.