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For decades, the Iranian regime has presented itself as an economically competitive and progressive political power. However, its own people are faced with an oppressive system where men and women of all ages are imprisoned, tortured, and executed for acts as simple as dancing, singing, speaking openly, or refusing to conform.
Behind the regime’s political posturing lies a population that has repeatedly risked their lives to demand dignity and liberty. Iranians continue to yearn for an end to this authoritarian rule.
Yet Iran’s actions have not been confined within its borders. Iran has bankrolled militant activity in Asia, South Asia, South America, Africa, Europe, Australia and even in their neighbouring Arab countries.
Since 28th February 2026, all the GCC countries have been targeted by Iran – leading to tragic fatalities and infrastructure destruction. Networks of Hizbollah operatives working for Iran have also been discovered. But we in the Arabian Gulf are no strangers to the interference of Iran – they have interfered with the Gulf countries since 1979.
Here are some examples of their persistent intimidation and violent acts linked to their network: 1981 failed coup in Bahrain, 1983 co-ordinated bombings in Kuwait, 1985 an assassination attempt in Kuwait, 1986 explosives in Haj pilgrims luggage in Saudi Arabia, 1987, Haj riots near the Grand mosque in Saudi Arabia, 1996 Khobar Tower bombing in Saudi Arabia, 2015, Sitra bombing in Bahrain, 2016 IRGC bombing plot foiled in Bahrain and 2019 Fujairah tanker sabotage in the UAE. It should be noted that these are not abstract geopolitical disputes but scars in the collective memory of the region. These attacks should be a reminder that peace is fragile and hard-won.
The Iranian regime through proxy groups such as IRGC, Hizbollah amongst others across the globe do not value peace and stability. Groups, funded by Iran, have infiltrated some of the highest levels of government in the West with one goal – to choke freedom with their destructive ideological policies. History shows us that nations are rarely destroyed overnight. They are weakened slowly – through complacency, denial, and the refusal to confront uncomfortable truths.
Allowing people to openly and vociferously support terrorist groups in western countries is questionable. Their actions have not brought peace – only more instability, more violence, and more fractured societies. The West has allowed mass illegal immigration. Thousands of criminals and demented extremists have entered their countries. The result: crimes have soared, hundreds of sexual assaults every day and these monsters have created mayhem and harmed the Western way of life. It is unbelievable that the welfare system is supporting these sleeping cells with taxpayer money! Meanwhile, the Iranian people themselves continue to suffer under a system that denies them basic freedoms. Their struggle is real, and their courage undeniable. Supporting their right to live free from repression has somehow become confused with endorsing the very regime that oppresses them.
One recent disturbing news was the burning of four ambulances in London! Despite a UK based IRGC group called the Shabab AlYamin claiming responsibility, some people disregarded the destruction or fear and used it to endorse extremist fantasies. In Bahrain, some posts indicated a lack of sympathy and dire lack of understanding of what that criminal act represents. Imagine if this was your neighbourhood in Bahrain – across the road from your lovely house and beautiful cars? Imagine that for a second!
For us in Bahrain, it is vital that we vehemently commit to a country that has given us a life that many dream about. Loyalty is not blind obedience; it is just an understanding of our security. So, enjoying prosperity while discreetly holding onto deep resentment or a minuscule level of empathy for a distant violent ideology is a contradiction and difficult to ignore. Allegiance is not selective.
Bahrain and the rest of the GCC have achieved safety, stability, economic growth, and social coexistence. This is the result of leadership, policy and relentless determination of earlier generations. The younger generation has inherited that legacy – but it comes with a responsibility. They must protect what has been built, be vigilant and grateful for our peaceful lives on this island. We must also be alert to people’s deep rooted ideas or misplaced narratives. Understanding who seeks us harm is not about hatred or intolerance. It is about survival and deep respect for the sacrifices taken by earlier generations that have created the security we enjoy today.
Sally Saar
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