Religious and community leaders across the country have stepped forward in a show of solidarity, opening their doors to provide safe shelter for individuals affected by Iran’s recent strikes on the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain.
Following the evacuation orders issued for residents of Juffair, many citizens and expatriates have been left temporarily displaced, awaiting clearance from government authorities to safely return to their homes.
Among these generous individuals is fashion influencer Ayesha Umer, who is offering a safe space to the people of the country she says she is ‘deeply grateful to’. “What we are hearing and experiencing right now isn’t something we have gone through here before,” Ms Umer said on her social media account.
“The distant thuds and unusual sounds can feel unsettling, especially when you are alone with your thoughts,” she added.
“Even when we know everything is under control, moments like these can make you pause.
“As expat girls, not everyone is fortunate enough to be surrounded by family here and many of us live on our own.
“If you are alone and feeling a little anxious because of the current situation, please know that you don’t have to deal with this on your own.
“My home is open to you, truly. If you need company or a calm space, then call me or message me. Sometimes, just being around people makes all the difference.”
People, especially women, can contact Ms Umer on her social media @dailysparks__.
Meanwhile, community leaders across the country are stepping up in remarkable ways, providing vital shelter to those in need. Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam (BKS) president P V Radhakrishna Pillai said that the association is ready to host people who need help.
“We are prepared to give temporary shelter to our needy community members,” said Mr Pillai.
“Irrespective of where you come from, this is the time we must all stand together and help each other.
“Indian community members, who require temporary shelter in these present conditions, can approach the association premises in Segaya and we will be there for you.”
For more details about the BKS shelter, contact 36129714.
Religious organisations, including the Gurudwara Sikh Temple Shri Guru Singh Sabha Budaiya, are also lending a helping hand.
Speaking to the GDN, Jagminder Singh, a temple-goer, said that their doors are open for everyone, regardless of their ethnicity, background and religion.
“There are around 200 people at the temple taking shelter already,” Mr Singh said.
“They come from different backgrounds and ethnicities, including Sikhs, Hindus and Christians as well.
“Regardless of where you are from, whether it be a Bahraini or non-Bahraini, everybody is welcome to take shelter until the situation stabilises.
“We will provide them food and shelter with no conditions and no questions asked, because they are fellow human beings.”
For more information, people can contact the temple by calling 66666870.
The Iranian missile attack at the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet also evoked reactions from the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia Aldo Berardi, who called for all faithfuls to remain calm and united in prayer.
“Please carefully follow the instructions of civil authorities and take all necessary precautions in your homes, workplaces and parishes,” he said in a social media post. “I also direct all parish priests and rectors to take appropriate action and to make the necessary decisions, with prudence and responsibility, to ensure the safety of the faithful entrusted to their care,” he said, while calling for special care to the sick, elderly and the vulnerable.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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