How Bahrain Is Using the War on Iran to Suppress Its Own People

The war in the Middle East carries a tragedy represented in the censorship imposed by Gulf states to protect themselves from unwanted media coverage. Bahrain has become the latest country under scrutiny, following the death of Bahraini citizen Mohamed al-Mosawi and documented evidence of his torture during his detention in connection with the war on[…]

Selective Neutrality in the Gulf: How Strategic Partnerships Endanger Civilians Amid Regional Escalation

For decades, Gulf governments have promoted the narrative that their states are islands of stability in an otherwise turbulent region. Through economic diversification and careful geopolitical balancing, countries such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have positioned themselves as pragmatic actors committed to stability and economic prosperity. Amid the current[…]

Filming Conflict and the Boundaries of Expression: Human Rights Implications of UAE Wartime Restrictions

Since the escalation of the 2026 conflict involving Iran, the United Arab Emirates has introduced and reinforced restrictions on filming and sharing footage of missile strikes and their aftermath. Authorities have warned residents and visitors not to record or circulate images of missile debris, attack sites or sensitive locations, citing concerns related to public safety[…]

The War That the World Will Pay For

Despite intermittent talk of peace negotiations, the conflict consuming the Middle East shows no credible signs of resolution. Rockets and drones continue to streak across the region with grim regularity, and the entry of Yemen into the war has only widened the theatre of violence, adding yet another layer of complexity to an already intractable[…]

Bahrain Exploits Expansion of War to Tighten Its Security Grip on Citizens

Bahraini human rights sources have reported that authorities have arrested at least 60 individuals, including children, in connection with their participation in peaceful protests and online activity regarding the war on Iran. Iran has carried out drone and missile attacks on U.S. bases in Bahrain in response to attacks launched against its territory from these[…]