In these tense moments, I write as a Bahraini citizen amid growing fears that our region may once again be drawn into conflict, as it has been in the past; from the Iran-Iraq war to the invasion of Kuwait then its liberation and the invasion of Iraq. We had no direct involvement in those wars, yet their repercussions were imposed upon us, just as we are now facing the impact of the current events.
As citizens of GCC countries, we all wish peace and prosperity for everyone.
It is deeply regrettable that we are living in an era of ideological and imperial conflicts that are undermining the security, stability and development of our people.
This is not a time for philosophising or analysing what is happening; rather, it is a time for sensing the national duty, for standing united to safeguard security and safety for all, and for appreciating the sincere efforts undertaken by our armed forces and security personnel to protect the nation. Their proactive preparedness for emergencies - through advanced early-warning systems – constitutes a model to be emulated in crisis management.
These efforts have helped guard against rumours through providing immediate and rapid responses and by clarifying facts to the public, whether via social media or through official news bulletins issued by the Ministry of Interior, in addition to providing nearly 65 shelter sites across the kingdom’s governorates.
We must also acknowledge the important role of Bahrain’s air defences and the courage of the Bahrain Defence Force in shooting down a number of missiles that entered the kingdom’s airspace.
In the national press, we are aware that everyone is asking how long we will continue to live through these events – will they be prolonged or will they end soon?
Answering this difficult question depends on whether or not there are rational voices within the international community to intervene and halt this dangerous escalation. Prolonged conflict threatens massive losses for all, as there are no winners in war.
You, the people of the Gulf, know that you have never been ‘warmongers’; rather, you have always been builders who support the security and stability of many nations. You are always among the first to extend a helping hand to those affected by disasters and wars anywhere in the world.
What I ask of you is to continue upholding your noble values and the purity of your hearts, to preserve what our forefathers achieved in building your homelands, and to maintain Gulf unity in the face of challenges and hardships.
In the end, nothing remains but to pray to God Almighty: “O God, protect our rulers, our countries and our peoples, and perpetuate upon us the blessings of security and stability.”
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