Bahraini security forces used “excessive force” and tortured detainees in a March crackdown on Shiite-led protests demanding democratic change, the head of an Independent Commission of Inquiry announced on Thursday. Responding to the inquiry’s findings, an official spokesman said the government accepts the criticisms. “The government welcomes the findings of the Independent Commission, and acknowledges its criticisms,” a statement said.
“We took the initiative in asking for this thorough and detailed inquiry to seek the truth and we accept it.” The report also acknowledged that the commission did not find proof of an Iran link to the unrest, dispelling widespread allegations by Sunni Gulf leaders that Iran played a role in instigating the mainly Shiite protests.
Bahrain’s King Hamad vowed there would be reforms.