Security is a responsibility and national unity is a guarantee
A Pause
In light of the delicate security situation in our region, and what recent developments have revealed about the nature of the Iranian regime, its ambitions, and its approach toward neighboring states, it becomes our duty to address a debate that worries some segments of Bahraini society. This debate concerns the security and preventive measures adopted by the state, and the fear held by some Shia citizens that these measures are directed against them due to their sectarian affiliation.
Protecting the nation’s security is a responsibility that brooks no negligence. Adopting preventive measures is legitimate and necessary when threats are real and direct.
However, it is equally essential that we do not allow the impression to spread that an entire national component is being held responsible for the actions of individuals, or that the confrontation with an external political project has turned into a psychological barrier between the sons of one nation.
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Bahrain was among the first countries targeted by the Iranian regime after 1979 as part of its “export of the revolution” project. Its architects believed that Bahrain’s diverse social fabric, and the presence of a large percentage of Shia citizens, provided an entry point to penetrate society and influence its stability.
However, they ignored a firmly established historical fact: Bahrainis, across all their sects and social groups, have previously rejected Iranian claims, affirming the Arab identity and independence of their country. This was demonstrated when the UN Secretary-General dispatched his Personal Representative in 1970 to ascertain the wishes of the Bahraini people. His report concluded that an overwhelming majority desired a fully sovereign, independent Arab state, a result unanimously endorsed by the Security Council in Resolution 278, issued on May 11, 1970.
The stance of Shia citizens was not separate from that of other Bahrainis; they affirmed their commitment to their nation’s independence, Arab identity, and sovereignty, as well as their loyalty to the esteemed Al Khalifa leadership, which established Arab rule in Bahrain since 1783.
This authentic national stance has remained steadfast among the vast majority, despite various attempts at incitement and polarization.
Since the establishment of the “Velayat-e Faqih” (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist) system, Bahrain has faced continuous attempts to divide its national unity, stir sectarian tensions, and transform citizens’ religious affiliation into a political and security card used by a foreign state in its regional conflicts. This rhetoric has never served Bahraini Shias.
We do not claim that Bahrain is a “utopian city” free from error or deficiency; like all societies, it faces political, economic, and social challenges, and may witness individual unjust practices that require review and correction.
However, addressing any shortcomings must occur under the umbrella of the state, through its institutions and laws, not by capitulating to external pressures or justifying aggression against the homeland.
Justice is a right for all citizens, and loyalty is a shared sacred duty. Security measures must be linked to acts violating the law, not to sectarian identity, and accountability must be individual, not collective; this is fairer and more effective in fortifying the domestic front.
We have witnessed limited cases where some individuals expressed schadenfreude when Bahrain was subjected to attacks. Such stances are condemned, and their perpetrators were held accountable according to the law. However, these individuals do not represent Shia citizens, just as no extremist represents the sect to which he belongs.
The majority of Bahraini Shias are an integral part of the nation; they contributed to its construction, defended its independence, and participated in its institutions, economy, and culture.
Bahrain’s experience provides evidence of opportunities granted based on merit. Among these is the Crown Prince’s Global Scholarships Program, established by Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa in 1999, which provided opportunities for outstanding students to study abroad based on competitive criteria, independent of sectarian or familial affiliations.
The same approach is evident in the youth and sports sectors, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, with champions emerging from all segments of society, including Bahraini runner Rqaya Al-Ghasra, who carried the Kingdom’s flag at the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
The message is clear: there is no security without justice, no justice without a strong state, and no strong state without national unity. Firmness is required in confronting those who collaborate with external forces, but it gains greater strength and legitimacy when coupled with fairness and the correction of past mistakes.
As for those who were misled by Iranian slogans but later reconsidered their stance and adhered to the law, the door to rejoining the national ranks should remain open for them; Bahrain safeguards itself by reintegrating its sons and fostering trust among them, under the wise leadership of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, may God protect and guard him.
Attempts to infiltrate Bahraini society have failed, because the bonds of shared history and destiny proved stronger than incitement. Bahrain will remain inclusive of all its sons, and our national unity will continue to be the strongest guarantee of its security, sovereignty, and future.
$ Former Bahraini Minister of Labour and Social Development
