Bahrain King Demands End to Iranian Interference in Gulf States

MANAMA, Bahrain — King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has issued a stern demand for Iran to cease its interference in the internal affairs of Bahrain and other Gulf nations, following a period of heightened regional military tension.

In a statement carried by the state-run Bahrain News Agency, the king described recent attacks as "heinous aggression" directly targeting the security and stability of the Bahraini people. He noted that the hardships the country has faced have "exposed many faces" that were previously hiding their true intentions.

All six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) were subjected to attacks from Iran following airstrikes conducted by the United States and Israel inside Iranian territory in late February. While Tehran maintained it was targeting American military assets and interests, the strikes hit energy infrastructure, airports, and civilian residential buildings across the Gulf region.

Bahraini officials reported that their air defense forces intercepted and destroyed 194 missiles and 523 drones before a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire between the parties took effect on April 8.

King Hamad also issued a sharp warning to Bahraini nationals found to be collaborating with foreign adversaries, characterizing such acts as "forfeiture of national trust" and treason that would not be forgiven. He emphasized that citizenship is a sacred covenant, and those who violate it would lose their rights to it.

The monarch's rhetoric follows a string of legal actions taken this week by Bahraini courts. Five individuals were sentenced to life in prison, while 25 others received 10-year sentences for supporting the Iranian attacks. Additionally, the government has revoked the citizenship of 69 people accused of maintaining ties with groups that pose a threat to national security.

GAROWE ONLINE