Bahrain revokes citizenship of 69 over alleged support for Iranian attacks

Bahrain has revoked the citizenship of 69 individuals and their families over allegations that they supported, glorified, or sympathised with Iranian attacks during recent regional hostilities, according to the country’s Interior Ministry.

Officials said the decision was carried out under royal directives from King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and in line with Bahrain’s nationality law, which allows citizenship to be withdrawn in cases deemed harmful to national security or loyalty to the state.

The ministry accused those affected of “expressing sympathy for hostile Iranian acts” and, in some cases, engaging with external parties or spreading content seen as encouraging aggression against the kingdom.

Reports indicate that the revocation also extends to family members of the accused, with authorities stating that all those affected are of non-Bahraini origin.

The move comes amid heightened regional tensions following Iranian strikes on Gulf targets during wider Middle East conflicts, including attacks linked to escalating Iran–US–Israel hostilities.

Bahrain has previously faced criticism from rights groups over citizenship revocations, though authorities insist such measures are necessary to safeguard national stability.