"First concrete result of POTUS cozying up to despots in Riyadh: Deadly attack on peaceful protesters by emboldened Bahrain regime. Google it" Zarif tweeted.
Bahraini regime forces have stormed into the residence of Sheikh Isa Qassim, the spiritual leader of the country’s Shia majority in a northwestern village, arresting everyone inside the house. It is not yet clear whether Sheikh Qassim himself is among the detainees.
There have been reports of security forces firing birdshot at protesters and teargas into the house of the prominent cleric. Sources have confirmed at least two fatalities. Seven others are said to be in critical condition.
Diraz is the native village of Sheikh Isa Qassim. It has been the scene of protests since last June, when the authorities stripped the cleric of his citizenship over accusations that he used his position to serve foreign interests and promote “sectarianism” and “violence.” He has denied the allegations.
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