King Hamad authorises revocation of citizenship for 69 non-Bahrainis accused of Iran collusion

Bahrain's Ministry of Interior has announced the revocation of citizenship for 69 individuals, a directive authorised by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The action targets people of non-Bahraini origin who are accused of sympathising with Iran and colluding with foreign entities. This decision marks a significant escalation in the government's response to Tehran's retaliatory strikes on Bahraini facilities, which included a US Navy base, during the wider regional conflict.

Under Bahraini law, the state retains the authority to strip citizenship from those deemed to have caused harm to the country or demonstrated disloyalty. The Ministry specified that the 69 individuals fall into this category following accusations of supporting Iranian aggression. While the directive confirms their foreign origin, the specific identities of those affected have not been publicly disclosed by the authorities.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations. The Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy, a London-based group, has condemned the revocation as a blatant abuse of power and a clear violation of international law. The organisation highlighted the lack of transparency surrounding the case, noting that it remains unconfirmed whether the individuals have been arrested or their current location.

It is also unclear if the 69 people hold dual nationality, a factor that could complicate the legal implications of the revocation. Furthermore, details regarding the specific nature of the alleged collusion with foreign entities have not been detailed by the Ministry of Interior. The government has not confirmed whether the individuals are currently within Bahrain or if they have fled the country following the announcement.

This administrative action occurs against a backdrop of intense regional tension. Iran launched its retaliatory missile and drone campaign on 28 February, accusing Gulf neighbours of allowing US strikes from their territory. The conflict paused on 9 April following a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire, though negotiations to permanently end the war continue three weeks later.

The decision by King Hamad underscores the government's stance that foreign interference is a direct threat to national security. It also reflects the long-standing friction between the Bahraini state and its Shia population, who have historically accused authorities of marginalisation. The revocation of citizenship for 69 individuals serves as a stark example of the legal tools available to the state in its defence against perceived external threats.