Foreign Minister: HM King's speech reflects a clear vision for strengthening Gulf security, unity, and stability
Manama, Aug. 2 (BNA): Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, commended His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s address during the Bahrain Shield joint military exercise. He said the address reflects Bahrain's steadfast commitment to Gulf unity, deeper defence integration, and stronger strategic partnerships in support of regional and international security and stability.
The minister reaffirmed Bahrain's pride in the strong bonds uniting the GCC member states and their people, describing the GCC as a leading model of joint Arab cooperation founded on shared destiny and a common commitment to security, stability, and sustainable prosperity.
He noted that His Majesty's address strongly condemned the continued unjustified Iranian attacks against GCC member states as flagrant violations of international law, the Charter of the United Nations, and the principles of good-neighbourliness. He emphasised that the address also expressed regret over Iran's disregard for the religious and historical bonds it shares with the GCC countries, while reaffirming the values of Islamic unity.
Dr. Al Zayani highlighted His Majesty's hope that ties would return to the right path through a renewed commitment to the principles of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and good-neighbourly ties in accordance with the tolerant values of Islam.
He also emphasised His Majesty's praise for the Bahrain Shield exercise and the high level of professionalism demonstrated by participating forces, including the King Hamad Brigade of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, GCC armed forces, and units from the Peninsula Shield Force. He said the exercise represents a practical step toward strengthening Gulf defence integration and commended the readiness of GCC armed forces and air defence systems in countering attacks by Iran and its proxies, thereby safeguarding the region's security and protecting civilians.
The minister further commended His Majesty's appreciation for the broad regional and international support extended to Bahrain and the GCC, noting that it has strengthened security and defence cooperation while advancing strategic partnerships and protecting the region's development achievements.
Dr. Al Zayani also welcomed His Majesty's endorsement of the newly established multinational maritime defence coalition led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in which Bahrain is a founding member. He said the coalition will help enhance maritime security, protect freedom of navigation, secure international trade routes and global energy supplies, and safeguard shared maritime interests in the Bab Al Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden in accordance with international law.
He expressed pride in the diplomatic approach adopted by His Majesty the King and the leaders of the GCC in responding to the attacks through solidarity, restraint, and adherence to international legitimacy. He noted that this approach contributed to Bahrain's success during its current non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council, in securing the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2817, co-sponsored by 136 countries, and Human Rights Council Resolution 61/1, adopted by consensus with the support of 116 countries, along with other UN resolutions condemning the attacks.
Dr. Al Zayani reaffirmed that Bahrain, under the leadership of His Majesty the King and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander, and Prime Minister, and through its current presidency of the GCC, will continue advancing Gulf integration, strengthening partnerships with neighbouring countries and international organisations, and supporting regional security, stability, sustainable development, and international peace.
