Bahrain sentences two to 10 years for supporting Iranian attacks
A Bahraini court has sentenced two individuals to 10 years in prison for endorsing Iranian attacks on the kingdom through social media posts.
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The High Criminal Court in Bahrain has issued verdicts in two separate cases, convicting defendants of supporting and endorsing Iranian terrorist attacks against the Kingdom of Bahrain. Each was sentenced to 10 years in prison, fined 2,000 dinars, and had confiscated items seized by authorities.
The head of the Terror Crimes Prosecution said the rulings were delivered during today's court session, following the defendants’ publication of content on social media expressing support for and encouragement of the attacks.
The cases originated from reports filed by the Cybercrime Directorate at the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security, which had monitored two social media accounts containing images, videos, and comments endorsing the Iranian terrorist attacks targeting Bahrain.
Investigations led to the identification of those operating the accounts. The Public Prosecution then launched an inquiry, interrogating the suspects, hearing witness testimonies, and consulting technical experts to examine the seized electronic devices.
Technical analysis confirmed the defendants’ involvement in the alleged acts. Based on the investigation’s findings, the Public Prosecution referred both individuals to the High Criminal Court.
The court reviewed both cases over several sessions, ensuring all legal guarantees for the defendants, including the right to defense, before issuing its verdicts.
The Public Prosecution emphasized that freedom of opinion and expression is protected within the bounds of the law, stressing the importance of adhering to legal regulations when using social media and not exploiting it in ways that threaten the country’s security or stability.
It also clarified that publishing or circulating material that supports, endorses, or justifies terrorist acts is a crime punishable by law. The prosecution reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the law and taking legal action against violators, urging citizens and residents to act responsibly on social media to help safeguard national security and stability.