Statement Condemning Arbitrary Arrests in Kuwait Over Political Positions on Regional Escalation Linked to the Aggression Against the Islamic Republic of Iran

The Bahrain Forum for Human Rights (BFHR) condemns the sweeping arrest campaigns and repressive security measures currently taking place in Kuwait under the pretext of so-called “cells,” in the context of regional escalation linked to the war against the Islamic Republic of Iran. BFHR views these actions as a dangerous step toward entrenching a police-state approach that undermines basic rights and freedoms.
BFHR stresses that these measures do not fall within the legitimate scope of “maintaining security,” but rather amount to a systematic campaign targeting a specific segment of society on sectarian and political grounds. Even the most basic forms of peaceful expression are being criminalized—including sharing news, expressing opinions on social media, or even offering condolences and using religious expressions—reflecting an unprecedented level of repression and restriction of freedoms.
BFHR affirms that:
•    Claims about “cells” and “plots” lack transparency and credibility, and are being used to justify arbitrary arrests and create a climate of fear. 
•    The imprisonment of hundreds of Kuwaiti citizens over their opinions or beliefs constitutes a clear violation of international law and reflects the politicized misuse of security institutions. 
•    The rise in sectarian incitement and the linking of citizens to regional conflicts pose a direct threat to civil peace and deepen divisions within Kuwaiti society. 
BFHR also expresses deep concern over reports that confessions have been extracted under torture and coercion, and that state security charges are being brought without clear evidence—amounting to serious violations that require international accountability.
BFHR notes that these policies are part of a broader pattern of worsening human rights conditions in Kuwait recently, including the use of restrictive laws, the suspension of parliamentary life, and the revocation of citizenship as a tool to punish dissent. These measures contravene both the Kuwaiti constitution and international obligations.
Accordingly, BFHR calls clearly and explicitly for:
•    The immediate and unconditional release of all individuals detained for peaceful expression. 
•    An end to all prosecutions motivated by political or sectarian considerations. 
•    Independent and transparent international investigations into allegations of torture and ill-treatment in detention. 
•    An end to the use of the judiciary as a tool for settling political scores. 
•    The restoration of constitutional rights and public freedoms, and an end to policies of intimidation and citizenship revocation. 
BFHR also urges the international community not to remain silent in the face of these violations, and to take meaningful steps to pressure the Kuwaiti authorities to end this repressive approach and uphold human rights without selectivity or politicization.
The continuation of these policies will only lead to further tension and instability, and places full responsibility on the Kuwaiti authorities for their serious repercussions on the unity of society and its future.