A powerful call for international parliamentary action echoed through Parliament yesterday as Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam urged legislatures across the globe to take a firm and public stand against the recent hostile Iranian attacks targeting Bahrain and neighbouring Gulf states.
Opening the session, Mr Al Musallam strongly condemned what he described as ‘hostile and sinful’ missile and drone strikes on Bahrain’s territory and civilian facilities.
“We express our strong condemnation and denunciation of the hostile Iranian attacks, including the use of ballistic missiles and drones targeting the territory of Bahrain and sisterly countries,” he said.
“Targeting civilian facilities and private property constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law and represents a direct threat to regional peace and security.”
In remarks that formed the core of his address, the Speaker called on international parliamentary bodies to move beyond statements of sympathy and adopt a clear and decisive position.
“We call upon the Inter-Parliamentary Union and all parliamentary organisations, federations and associations worldwide to condemn these sinful aggressions and take an immediate and firm stance to halt such treacherous hostile acts,” he said.
He stressed that parliaments, as representatives of the people, carry a moral and legal responsibility to defend the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and civilian protection.
“Legislative institutions must stand united against any actions that undermine the foundations of security and stability in the region,” he added.
While appealing for international support, Mr Al Musallam reaffirmed Bahrain’s sovereign rights under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad and direct follow-up by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
“On behalf of you all, we affirm that Bahrain will always remain a homeland of security and stability, development and prosperity,” he said. “It preserves its sovereignty, safeguards its territory and places the safety of all citizens and residents as a top priority.”
He underscored Bahrain’s right to respond in co-ordination with partners and allies and take necessary measures to protect its national security. At the same time, he reiterated the kingdom’s longstanding commitment to peace and diplomacy.
“Bahrain continues its wise approach in supporting peace efforts, strengthening regional and international stability, and promoting the principles of good neighbourliness and mutual respect between states,” he added.
The Speaker praised the solidarity demonstrated by the majority of Bahrainis, describing it as a ‘distinguished national stance’ reflecting loyalty, responsibility and unity behind the leadership.
He also urged citizens and residents to adhere to official guidance, exercise caution and refrain from spreading rumours, calling on everyone to rely solely on credible official sources.
Concluding his remarks, Mr Al Musallam said the current circumstances demand collective resolve at both national and international levels. “This stage requires us all to uphold national unity and place the interests of the nation above all else,” he said, adding that global parliamentary solidarity is equally vital to ‘preserve peace and prevent further escalation’.
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