4 US citizens arrested in Bahrain (Iran, middle east, government, support)

[katzpaw]

It appears they were journalists who entered as tourists, didn't disclose they were journalists, and were arrested either participating in or covering an anti-government riot.

What I found interesting is that "Bahrain is a small island nation with a predominantly Shiite population ruled by a Sunni minority". Oil rich and just across the gulf from Iran this makes them the perfect target for covert or overt Iranian actions to support the oppressed Shiite majority. They are a closer and easier target and preliminary target before taking on Saudi Arabia.

Four Americans arrested in Bahrain - CNN.com

[fr3ssconyc]

Why are Americans or journalists traveling to Middle East. or south america. many people been kidnapped and held ransom.
and killed. doesn't make sense

[doc1]

Originally Posted by katzpaw

It appears they were journalists who entered as tourists, didn't disclose they were journalists, and were arrested either participating in or covering an anti-government riot.

Really stupid decision on their part. I wish them luck.

[charolastra00]

Originally Posted by fr3ssconyc

Why are Americans or journalists traveling to Middle East. or south america. many people been kidnapped and held ransom.
and killed. doesn't make sense

Because the Middle East is a huge place and not a monolith. I would be no more afraid to go to Bahrain than I would to Buenos Aires (which is located in that wasteland known as South America).

When I lived in Mexico, my host mother didn't want to let her daughter study in the US because she perceived it as too dangerous. I laughed and told her people thought the same about me going to Mexico. She was shocked.