Manama: Bahraini daily newspapers today focused on local events that happened over the past 24 hours. Among the highlights is the Bahrain Defense Force (BDF) General Command's announcement that 84 missiles and 147 drones have been destroyed since the onset of Iranian attacks.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Bahrain's mission to the United Nations has submitted a letter refuting claims made by an Iranian representative. In response to the ongoing situation, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has convened a meeting in New York at Bahrain's request to address the Iranian attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. Additionally, GCC permanent representatives have met with the UN General Assembly President in New York to discuss these urgent issues.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively engaging with international and Arab counterparts to address the escalating situation. The minister has received calls from various international counterparts, including the Egyptian counterpart, to coordinate efforts. Meanwhile, Qatar has sent a fifth identical letter to the UN Security Council concerning the Iranian attacks, highlighting the region's diplomatic efforts to tackle the issue.
Efforts are also being made on the home front, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to facilitate the safe return of Bahraini citizens abroad through land border crossings. The Interior Ministry has arrested four individuals for filming and publishing videos related to Iranian aggression, underlining the importance of maintaining national security and public order.
In a show of solidarity, the National Institution for Human Rights is conducting field visits to follow up on those affected by the Iranian attacks. The Northern Governor has inspected shelter centers in the governorate to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, while the Transportation and Telecommunications Minister has visited telecom companies to affirm Bahrain's telecommunications sector's readiness.
The region continues to face security challenges as neighboring countries like Kuwait and Qatar intercept drones and missiles fired from Iran. Kuwait's air defenses have successfully intercepted 12 drones and 14 missiles, while Qatar intercepted nine drones, with one crashing in an uninhabited area without causing casualties. Saudi Arabia has also intercepted four drones and a ballistic missile, highlighting the collective efforts of GCC states to protect their airspace and ensure regional stability.