Recurring Demonstrations in Kuwait

Associated Press/Gustavo Ferrari - Islamist, nationalist and liberal opposition groups gather to protest the Kuwait government's amendment of the electoral law and support a boycott on the country's election on Friday, Nov. 30, 2012 in Kuwait City. More than 15,000 protesters rallied in the first government-authorized demonstration in Kuwait since a ban on political gatherings earlier this month. The election to be held Saturday, Dec. 1 is the fifth since mid-2006, and the second this year.(AP Photo/Gustavo Ferrari) 

U.S. Embassy Kuwait

Kuwait City, Kuwait

December 13, 2012

                              

Subject:           Security Message for U.S. Citizens:  18-2012

Recurring Demonstrations in Kuwait

According to media reports, there are calls for a number of recurring demonstrations and marches throughout the month of December.  Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  An increased police and security presence may be expected during marches and demonstrations.   Please avoid areas where demonstrations occur or are planned and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gatherings.  Stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and practice personal security awareness at all times.  Please note that participation in demonstrations by non-citizens is against the law in Kuwait.

Demonstrations may be announced or spontaneous.  They may begin in specific neighborhoods, and then spill over to other areas. 

The Embassy will continue to provide updates as to location and time of demonstrations as information becomes available.  Please continue to monitor the Embassy’s website for the latest available information.  For the latest demonstration notice, please click here.

As of December 12, 2012, recent nighttime demonstrations have taken place in the following areas and may continue there:

·         Ahmadi

·         Al Reqa

·         Al Sabahiya

·         Fahaheel

·         Mangaf

·         Sabah Al Nasser

·         Jahra 

A separate call for afternoon marches every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday in the following neighborhoods has been made:

·         Taima

·         Sulaibiya

·         Ahmadi

U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://step.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).   For further information, please consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website athttp://travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information can be found.  In addition, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those traveling or living in foreign countries.  You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook and download our free Smart Traveler App available through iTunes and the Android market to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer. 

This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov.

Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays.  The current holiday schedule for 2012 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html.

Dear foreign residents, only citizens are allowed...

As per sms from Ministry of Information, Kuwait.

Dear foreign residents, only citizens are allowed to take part in protests, processions and march demonstrations.
(Gathering law 12)
(Ministry of Information)

Kuwaiti opposition supporters run for cover as riot police fire tear gas during a protest in Kuwait City, on October 21, 2012, against the decision by Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah to amend the electoral law despite it having been confirmed by a court last month. Kuwaiti riot police beat opposition protesters who were gathering for a massive demonstration against a decision to change the electoral law, organisers and witnesses said. (Yasser Al-Zayyat/AFP/Getty Images)

Possible Demonstrations in Kuwait – November 4, 2012

Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S.  Citizens within your area of responsibility.

Kuwait City, Kuwait

November 4, 2012

Subject:           Security Notice for U.S. Citizens 14-2012

Possible Demonstrations in Kuwait – November 4, 2012

According to press reports, there will be demonstrations in multiple locations and a march towards the Kuwait Towers this evening, Sunday, November 4, 2012, starting at approximately 1930 hours.  Organizers of the event indicate that participants will gather at two locations - in front of Ahmad Tower (near Souq Sharq) and in front of the Safir International Hotel - and then march along Gulf Road until they converge at the Kuwait Towers.  An increased police and security presence is expected in and around the capital.  U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area.

The below Arabic language map, obtained from the internet, purports to indicate where the organizers intend to demonstrate and march.

Safir International Hotel

Kuwait Towers

Ahmad Tower

Spontaneous and/or planned demonstrations take place in Kuwait from time to time in response to world events or local developments.  At times, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  Avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  Please stay current with media coverage of local and regional events. U.S. Mission personnel have been advised to continue to practice personal security awareness and we advise the U.S. citizen community to do the same.

U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://step.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).   For further information, please consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information can be found.  In addition, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those traveling or living in foreign countries.  You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook. 

The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer. 

This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov.

Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays.  The current holiday schedule for 2012 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html

This email is UNCLASSIFIED.

Possible Demonstrations in Kuwait – October 31, 2012

Subject:          Demonstration Notice 14-2012

Possible Demonstrations in Kuwait – October 31, 2012

 

According to press reports, there may be several demonstrations this evening, October 31, 2012, following Maghreb prayers. Possible demonstration sites include the following:

 

·         Junction of Al-Sahafa Street and Airport Road (Route 55), across from the Al-Tali’a newspaper;

·         The diwaniya of Musallam al-Barrak, Al-Andalus, block 5, street 10, house 52; and/or

·         The Palace of Justice in downtown Kuwait City. 

 

An increased police and security presence is expected.

 

Spontaneous and planned demonstrations take place in Kuwait from time to time in response to world events or local developments.  At times, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  Please avoid areas where demonstrations occur or are planned and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gatherings.  Please stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and practice personal security awareness at all times. 
U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://step.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).   For further information, please consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.govwhere the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information can be found.  In addition, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those traveling or living in foreign countries.  You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook. 

 

The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer. 

 

This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov.

Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays.  The current holiday schedule for 2012 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html.

Demonstrations in Kuwait – October 21, 2012

Subject:           Security Notice for U.S. Citizens 13-2012

Demonstrations in Kuwait – October 21, 2012

Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S.  Citizens within your area of responsibility.

According to press reports, there will be demonstrations in multiple locations and a march towards the Seif Palace dubbed “National Dignity March” this evening starting at approximately 1930 hours, Sunday, October 21, in downtown Kuwait City.  An increased police and security presence is expected in and around the capital.  The Ministry of Interior states the demonstrations and National Dignity March are unauthorized and that they will respond to participants according to the law.

Spontaneous and/or planned demonstrations take place in Kuwait from time to time in response to world events or local developments.  At times, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  Avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  Please stay current with media coverage of local and regional events. U.S. Mission personnel have been advised to continue to practice personal security awareness and we advise the U.S. citizen community to do the same.

The below Arabic language map, obtained from the internet, purports to indicate where the organizers intend to demonstrate and march.  The map has been translated to English.

U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://step.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).   For further information, please consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information can be found.  In addition, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those traveling or living in foreign countries.  You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook. 

The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer. 

This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov.

Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays.  The current holiday schedule for 2012 is posted onhttp://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html.

This email is UNCLASSIFIED.

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait– Bidoon Demonstrations

Kuwait City, Kuwait
December 19, 2011

Subject: Emergency Message for U.S Citizens 21-2011– Demonstrations

Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S.  Citizens within your area of responsibility.

A sit-in to demonstrate solidarity with the Bidoon (stateless people) is scheduled potentially for 8:00pm at Determination Square on Monday, December 19 in downtown Kuwait City.  There are also reports of possible demonstrations in support of Bidoon rights tomorrow afternoon at Taima in the city of Jahra around 3:00 pm.  An increased police and security presence is expected in these areas.

Spontaneous and/or planned demonstrations do occur in Kuwait in response to global, regional, and local developments.  U.S. citizens are advised to avoid areas where demonstrations are ongoing and exercise caution if within the vicinity of large gatherings.

Please stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and continue to practice personal security awareness.
U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://travelregistration.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.
Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).   For further information, please consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information can be found.  In addition, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those traveling or living in foreign countries.  You can also follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and on Facebook.

The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer.

U.S. citizens in Kuwait who would like to receive future Emergency and Informational Messages from the Embassy directly by e-mail may sign up for this service by sending an e-mail to the following address: join-wardenmessagekuwait@mh.databack.com

This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov
Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays.  The current holiday schedule for 2011 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html.

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait – Demonstration Notice 14-2011

Emergency Message for U.S Citizens – Demonstration Notice 14-2011
September 20, 2011
Please circulate the following message without additions or omissions immediately to all U.S.  citizens within your area of responsibility.

An anti-corruption demonstration is planned for the early evening hours at Determination Square on Wednesday, September 21 in downtown Kuwait City.  An increased police and security presence is expected in and around the capital.
There are also reports of possible demonstrations in support of Bidoon rights on Wednesday, September 21 in the cities of Jahra, Al-Sulaibyah and Al-Ahmadi.  An increased police and security presence is also expected in these areas.
Spontaneous and planned demonstrations take place in Kuwait from time to time in response to world events or local developments.  At times, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  Do not let curiosity get the best of you; avoid the areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gatherings.  Please stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and practice personal security awareness at all times.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, as well as the Country Specific Information for Kuwait can be found.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). You can also download our free Smart Traveler App for travel information at your fingertips and follow us on  Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.
The U.S. Embassy is located at Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Block 6, Plot 14, Bayan, Kuwait.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of emergency assistance in Kuwait, you may reach the U.S. Embassy by calling +965-2259-1001 and requesting the duty officer.
U.S. citizens living or traveling in Kuwait are encouraged to enroll in the Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security.  U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.  For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad".
This message may be accessed on the Embassy website, http://kuwait.usembassy.gov
Please note that the Consular Section is closed for U.S. and most local holidays.  The current holiday schedule for 2011 is posted on http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/holidays.html

Bidun protests in Kuwait - from Mona Kareem

Interesting blog post below that perhaps sheds a little more light on the recent Emergency Message for U.S Citizens in Kuwait – Demonstration Notice that states, "Youth activist groups have called for a demonstration on Friday, September 16, 2011 in Kuwait City."

Mona Kareem: Bidun Protesters on Trials 

monakareem.blogspot.com