Bahrain Mirror: US Republican Senator John McCain released a statement on human rights and security concerns in Bahrain, criticizing the decision to close down the largest opposition group in country, Al-Wefaq National Islamic Society.

"Bahrain's decision to ban and dissolve the moderate opposition party al-Wifaq and re-arrest human rights activist Nabeel Rajab this week is an alarming diversion from the path of reform and national reconciliation and is inconsistent with Bahrain's stated commitment to the implementation of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) recommendations," said McCain.

"Suspending the activities of those who seek to work peacefully within the political process could alienate many Bahrainis who have a democratic, inclusive, and pluralistic vision for their country and could contribute to further unrest and violence," he added.

He further stated that Bahrain has legitimate security concerns, and that he strongly believes that the United States must continue to work closely with Bahrain to defeat ISIL and resist what he described as Iran's aggression in the region.

"As we have seen in our own country, it is both difficult and yet critical to balance the imperatives of security and core democratic rights. But the need to defeat extremist forces in the region must not blind us to our human rights commitments," stressed McCain.

"It is my hope that the Government of Bahrain will reconsider this decision and continue its pursuit of meaningful dialogue and an inclusive, pluralistic political process that can give all Bahraini citizens a stake in their nation's future and bring lasting peace and stability to the country," the senator said, concluding his statement.

Arabic Version