On March 14, 2011 foreign military elements entered Bahrain. Spontaneous demonstrations and violence can be expected throughout the country, according to the US Department of State statement.
The statement posted on the US Embassy website in Manama also warned US citizens of the potential for ongoing political and civil unrest in Bahrain.
“We urge US citizens to defer travel to Bahrain at this time. US citizens currently in Bahrain should consider departing. On March 14, 2011, the Department of State authorized the voluntary departure from Bahrain of eligible family members of US Embassy staff. This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Alert dated February 18, 2011,” it said.
“Bahrain has experienced a breakdown in law and order in various areas of the country over the last few weeks. Demonstrations have degenerated into violent clashes between police and protesters on several occasions, resulting in injuries. There also have been multiple reports of sectarian groups patrolling areas throughout Bahrain and establishing unofficial vehicle checkpoints,” the statement said.
“There is no indication that US citizens are being threatened or targeted. While demonstrations have not been directed toward Westerners, US citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments and to be vigilant regarding their personal security. The US Department of State strongly urges US citizens to avoid all demonstrations, as even peaceful ones can quickly become unruly and a foreigner could become a target of harassment or worse,” it said.