Bahrain: Expect an increase in the number and intensity of opposition rallies during the week of August 12 due to Kingdom’s Independence Day, International Jerusalem Day (August 11, 2012)

Current Situation
Multiple rallies are scheduled to take place across Bahrain in the coming days to mark the Kingdom’s Independence Day. In addition, activities are anticipated on August 17, to commemorate the International Jerusalem Day, which traditionally falls on the last Friday of Ramadan.

  • While Bahrain gained its independence on August 15, reports indicate that opposition rallies will take place from the evening hours of August 13 and throughout the following day.
  • The official holiday acknowledged by the government is celebrated on December 16, marking the day when Isa Bin Salman al-Khlifa was crowned.
  • On the night of August 13, a rally will commence in the Manama suburbs of Jidhafs and Karranah.
  • Additional marches are expected to take place on August 14 in various area  throughout the country, including: Manama and its southern suburbs; Muharraq Island; Sitra Island and its western suburbs; the villages along the Budaiya Highway; Central governorate (A’ali, Salmabad, Tubli); Northern governorate (Jidhafs, al-Diah, Sanabis); and the Southern Governorate (Dar Kulaieb, Malikiah, Karzakan).
  • The same day will also mark the trial of several prominent opposition figures, which is likely to increase the already heightened tensions.
  • Next Friday, August 17, will witness rallies in 25 locales throughout the kingdom, as part of the activities marking the International Day for Jerusalem.

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