tear gas

It's been a while since Bahrain has made it into the news, but unfortunately things have not completely settled down since February. There are still regular riots and arrests of protesters, especially in the villages. Last month 30 women were arrested after starting a protest in City Center, the largest mall in Bahrain. This month the activity continues. According to CNN, five people were arrested this weekend who apparently had plans for terrorist activity in Bahrain. The latest tactic by the protesters is to pour oil onto the highways. Two or three times a week one road is blocked due to oil.

This weekend I had my first experience with tear gas. Some friends and I went out for a movie and dinner this weekend. As we left the theater, we heard shots--mostly likely rubber bullets or tear gas canisters. Sadly, we hardly notice these sounds anymore. We've become so accustomed to them, they barely register among the other sounds of the city--honking, traffic, kids playing, men talking. After the movie we went to Juffair for dinner. Juffair is where the US navy base is located. There is one particular street called American Alley. Virtually every American fast food restaurant is located on this street, and it's always very crowded with Americans and visiting Saudis. After eating our delicious pizza dinner, we went outside to walk to our car. As soon as we stepped outside, we could smell it. I had had a cold all week and my nose was completely blocked, but after a few seconds outside, my sinuses, throat, and eyes were burning. That is some nasty stuff. We were several blocks away from where they shot it, so I can't imagine what it would be like to have been right there.

Although this was my first experience, unfortunately it is not uncommon these days. We continue to carry out our daily routines as if everything is normal, but experiences like this are a sobering reminder that not all is well on this island.

Please continue to pray for peace in Bahrain.