Iran-Backed Ashab Al-Kahf Threatens Bahrain Over Its Alleged Support For U.S. And Israel

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On November 19, 2023, the Iran-backed Iraqi militia Ashab Al-Kahf shared three photos of an airplane seen through a chain-link fence, claiming they show a C-5 aircraft at the international airport of Bahrain "which has normalized [relations with Israel]." According to the post, the plane is being used to "support the occupation and transport equipment and fighting forces by air." Large parts of the images have been digitally blurred.[1]

Ashab Al-Kahf warned Bahrain: "We tell you, you traitorous normalizers, to beware, beware of playing with fire. We will cut off your hands that cooperate with the Americans and the Israelis. Our eyes are monitoring you wherever you are. We see you clearly, closer than you and your masters anticipate."

The milita's threats come after Bahrain Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa condemned Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel - as well as Israel's response - and called for the release of Israeli hostages as a prerequisite for a ceasefire.

In recent weeks, Iran-backed militias in Iraq have claimed multiple attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria, and threatened to escalate their operations against the U.S. and continue their attacks until the conclusion of the war between Israel and Hamas.[2]