Bahrain arrests three for forming 'terrorist cell' linked to Hezbollah

Bahrain's Interior Ministry announced Monday the arrest of three individuals for forming a "terrorist cell" linked to Lebanon's Hezbollah group. "The suspects coordinated with terrorist elements abroad and sought to engage in espionage with them in a manner intended to undermine the sovereignty of the state, spread fear and panic among citizens and residents, and risk the security and safety of the country," the ministry said in a statement.

Suspects identified

The arrested are Ahmed Ahmed Hussain Madan, 24, Hassan Abdulameer Ashoor, 22, and Muntadhar Abdulmohsen Ali Madan, 29, according to the ministry. Their statements revealed that during their travel to Lebanon, they received weapons training after meeting with members of Hezbollah. They also sent photos and information about the repercussions of Iranian aggression against Bahrain amid the US-Israeli war against Iran.

Fundraising under guise of charity

The Interior Ministry accused the three of collecting funds under the guise of charitable work and transferring them to support the activities of Hezbollah in Lebanon in preparation for being tasked by its leaders with carrying out terrorist plots and acts in Bahrain. The General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science said that the necessary legal procedures had been finalized and that the three had been referred to the public prosecution.

Regional context

The arrests come amid ongoing regional escalation following the US-Israeli offensive on Iran that began Feb. 28. Bahrain, which hosts the US Fifth Fleet headquarters, has been repeatedly targeted by Iranian retaliatory strikes, with its air defenses intercepting hundreds of missiles and drones. Hezbollah, an Iranian ally, has been engaged in active conflict with Israel along Lebanon's border.