Bahrain’s Interior Ministry announced on April 27, 2026, the revocation of citizenship from 69 individuals for expressing sympathy with and glorifying Iran’s “sinful hostile acts” during the ongoing regional conflict. The figure includes family members who acquired nationality by dependency.
The ministry stated the affected persons, described as not of original Bahraini origin, had expressed support for Iran’s attacks on the kingdom and, in some cases, engaged in activities undermining national security. The decision follows Bahrain’s nationality laws allowing revocation for actions threatening state loyalty and stability.
This move implements royal directives issued by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa around April 19-20, 2026. The king ordered a review of citizenship entitlements and firm legal action against those accused of betraying the nation amid Iran’s missile and drone strikes on Bahraini territory, which caused casualties and damage. Bahrain hosts the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, making it a key target.
Authorities have conducted arrests for posting videos of strikes, sharing content seen as glorifying Iranian aggression, or spreading information viewed as harming public confidence. The crackdown has particularly affected Shiite communities amid longstanding sectarian tensions in the Sunni-ruled kingdom.
The Interior Ministry emphasized the revocations protect national security during heightened tensions. No names or detailed evidence were publicly released. Bahrain has previously used citizenship revocation for security reasons, including alleged foreign links.
The announcement coincides with broader Gulf security measures and economic pressures from the war, including a negative outlook shift by Moody’s on Bahrain’s ratings.