Bahrain's High Criminal Court conducted its initial hearing on Sunday in a significant national security case involving 19 individuals accused of membership in a terrorist organization connected to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The defendants face charges of undermining national unity, attempting to alter Bahrain's constitutional system, and obstructing state authorities from performing their duties.
Details of the Accusations
According to the Bahrain News Agency (BNA), the Public Prosecution has referred 19 people to trial, including 11 in custody and eight at large. The court heard allegations that the individuals attempted to control places of worship and community centers to incite opposition against Bahrain's governance, promoting activities that threatened the country's security and stability. The Public Prosecution further stated that the defendants' actions supported Iran's supreme leader and the ideology of the Iranian state.
Investigations Reveal IRGC Contacts
Investigations uncovered that the accused had collected funds and some had been in contact with the IRGC to carry out actions including incitement to commit violent acts, riots, and acts of sabotage in Bahrain, BNA added. This case follows a previous ruling last month where Bahrain's High Criminal Court sentenced 12 people to 10 years' imprisonment and imposed fines of 2,000 Bahraini dinars ($5,300) on some for supporting Iranian attacks against the country.
Context of Regional Tensions
Bahrain, which hosts US Naval Forces Central Command and the Fifth Fleet, was among 10 countries targeted by Iran with missile and drone attacks overseen by the IRGC. Bahraini authorities have intercepted and destroyed at least 194 ballistic missiles and 515 drones targeting the country since February 28, when the US and Israel launched a war against Tehran. The ongoing case underscores the heightened security concerns in the region and Bahrain's efforts to counter Iranian-linked activities.
