Bahrain's King: GCC a pioneering model for joint action; "Bahrain Shield" enhances collective security
Manama, July 30 (KUNA) -- Bahrain’s King and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, affirmed today, Thursday, that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has proven its success throughout its history in providing a pioneering model of joint action among its member states. He noted that the “Bahrain Shield” exercise is a practical extension of his efforts to enhance collective security and complete the integrated defense system within the framework of joint deterrence programs.
This statement was made by the King of Bahrain during his attendance at the joint “Bahrain Shield” exercise, which included participation from the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Squadron and several other brothers from the armed forces of the GCC member states, as well as representatives from the Peninsula Shield Force and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to strengthen joint cooperation among GCC countries and exchange expertise.
The King said, “We welcome our dear guests to their homeland, the Kingdom of Bahrain, which takes pride in their boundless brotherhood and unwavering support in every situation and circumstance, stemming from the deep solidarity, cohesion, mutual goodwill, and appreciation that unite the Arab Gulf states, as well as the continuous and firm desire to achieve prosperity for all.”
He added, “When discussing threats, we regret the continuation of Iranian behavior toward our countries, given its unjustified escalation and expansion of conflict circles. We thank God that, under these circumstances, we are surrounded by international support and advanced security and defense coordination with brothers, friends, and allies in confronting this aggression. This contributes to elevating the prospects of strategic cooperation and enhancing our resilience and capacity to protect the developmental and civilizational progress enjoyed by our Gulf states.”
He said, “What is even more regrettable is Iran’s disregard for the religious ties that should unite us, and its forgetting of the favor of the Prophet Muhammad’s message upon the Persian nation, which endowed its civilization with spiritual, human, and intellectual depth after centuries of misguidance.”
He expressed hope that matters would return to their proper course, with Islamic brotherhood prevailing, which can only be sustained by adhering to the values of the gentle Sharia, based on coexistence and respect for good-neighborly agreements.
He expressed great happiness and pride at the participation of the “King Hamad Brigade” of the Armed Forces of the fraternal United Arab Emirates in the “Bahrain Shield” exercise, noting that they are “as we have always known them, pioneers and initiators in supporting their brothers, and they deserve our sincere gratitude.”
He added, “We extend our deep appreciation for the distinguished performance, highly precise organization, and professionalism demonstrated by participants from our fraternal and beloved countries—the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar, and the State of Kuwait—in the joint exercise.”
He said, “The results have once again confirmed that our blood is one on all fronts, and the cohesion of field units is an honorable reflection of defending our shared goal and destiny in the Gulf of dignity and honor. We pray to God for success for all and for the protection of our homelands from all harm.”
He also emphasized the importance of this exercise in developing joint military capabilities, enhancing the readiness of participating forces, and strengthening defense cooperation among the armed forces of GCC member states, thereby contributing to supporting and enhancing security and stability in the region.
King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa was at the forefront of welcoming Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defense of the United Arab Emirates, upon his arrival in the Kingdom of Bahrain to attend the joint “Bahrain Shield” exercise. (End) K.N.A. / H.S.S.
