MANAMA: Bahrain and the US last night pledged to counter Iranian aggression in the region following talks between His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, and US Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook.
Iran has sought to undermine Bahrain’s security by fomenting sectarian tensions and providing arms to proxy groups and terrorists, said a joint statement after the talks.
“Despite these actions, Bahrain has remained true to its values and continues to prioritise peaceful coexistence and religious freedom for all its people,” the statement added.
“The US remains committed to Bahrain’s security and to a deep and effective partnership to counter Iranian-backed terror.
“In recognising the grave threat posed by Iranian arms transfers in the region, and in Bahrain specifically, the US and Bahrain call upon the UN Security Council to extend the arms embargo on Iran before it expires,” it said.
Mr Hook, who is also a senior adviser to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, also held discussions regarding Iran with Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and addressed a Press conference.
Mr Pompeo is to address the Security Council today on the expiration of the UN arms embargo on Iran.
Mr Hook was visiting Bahrain as part of his regional tour.
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