The Interior Minister has affirmed that Bahrain remains resolute in defending its sovereignty and protecting its citizens and residents, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad.
He underscored that national unity around the King, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, represents the cornerstone of cohesion and a source of stability, commending the decisive and integrated measures undertaken by the government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in addressing the repercussions of the Iranian aggression.
General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa made the statement in address at a virtual session of the Arab Interior Ministers Council.
He noted that the session convened at a time when GCC states and Jordan are being subjected to unjustified Iranian attacks involving missiles and drones, constituting a violation of national sovereignty and stability, and a breach of international and humanitarian norms.
He highlighted that, since the onset of the attacks on February 28, Bahrain Defence Force air defence systems have effectively intercepted missiles and drones, while the Interior Ministry activated crisis management plans and transitioned swiftly from routine procedures to the immediate implementation of approved emergency responses.
“These efforts addressed the consequences of the attacks, which resulted in casualties among citizens and residents, caused public alarm, and targeted critical infrastructure and civilian facilities, including airports, residential areas, and energy, water, electricity, and key economic installations,” he said.
He reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to restraint and its position of not being drawn into a war to which it is not a party.
Gen Shaikh Rashid said that the ministry’s efforts have focused on safeguarding lives and property, with Civil Defence and National Ambulance teams operating around the clock to respond to the situation.
“The Civil Defence Council has also enhanced protective measures, while the ministry strengthened communication with all segments of society, providing reassurance to citizens and residents of various nationalities through multilingual security awareness initiatives, in support of maintaining national cohesion.”
The minister emphasised that the current developments present a key challenge requiring enhanced co-operation and co-ordination to reinforce internal fronts and strengthen joint security measures.
He stressed the importance of continuing to develop mechanisms of collaboration to reflect unity of purpose and shared destiny.
He expressed appreciation to fellow interior ministers who conveyed their solidarity with Bahrain, wishing the council’s session success in achieving outcomes that support security and stability.
The council issued a statement condemning the Iranian aggression against Arab states, as violations of sovereignty, international law and the United Nations Charter, as well as a threat to international peace and security.
It also condemned the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure and facilities, which endangers lives and has resulted in civilian casualties, in breach of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness.
It affirmed its full solidarity with Arab states in confronting ongoing attacks and its support for measures taken to safeguard their security, stability, territorial integrity and their legitimate right to self-defence.
The council reiterated its rejection of Iran’s continued financing, arming and mobilisation of affiliated militias in several Arab countries, describing such actions as a serious threat to regional security and stability.
It also commended the professionalism and bravery of armed forces, security agencies and civil defence units across Arab states in responding to these attacks, recognising their sacrifices in maintaining security and the protection of lives and property.
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