Manama: The Legislative Authority held a joint meeting today with General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, to review recent developments and the evolving situation following the Iranian attacks on the Kingdom of Bahrain and GCC states, their implications for regional security and stability, and the measures undertaken by the Ministry of Interior to safeguard security and maintain stability.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting was chaired on behalf of the Council of Representatives by Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council, and on behalf of the Shura Council by Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of the Shura Council, with the participation of the Minister of Interior representing the government. It was attended by the Deputy Speakers of both councils, the chairpersons and members of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committees, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Shura and Representatives Councils Affairs, and the General Secretariats of the two councils.
At the outset, the Speaker and the Shura Chairman affirmed the Legislative Authority's support for the Kingdom of Bahrain's firm position, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and in line with the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in condemning the Iranian attacks and taking all necessary measures to protect national security and safeguard sovereignty.
They expressed deep appreciation for the Bahrain Defence Force, the National Guard, the Ministry of Interior, and all military, security and civil entities for their vigilance and high readiness in addressing developments, thereby strengthening the protection of the Kingdom and preserving its security. They also commended the Ministry of Interior's efforts across all sectors in protecting lives and property, enhancing civil protection measures, maintaining internal cohesion, and reinforcing communication with all segments of society to promote reassurance among citizens and residents through security awareness.
The Speaker and the Shura Chairman further praised the efforts of national competencies within "Team Bahrain" across various sectors, highlighting their dedication in addressing challenges and serving the nation. They also expressed appreciation for the unity, cohesion and national responsibility demonstrated by citizens and residents, reflecting broad national solidarity and confidence in the measures taken by the government to safeguard the Kingdom's security.
For his part, the Minister of Interior delivered a statement, noting that the meeting reflects ongoing coordination between the legislative and executive authorities and underscores shared national responsibilities. In implementation of the directives of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, he outlined the security measures undertaken by the Ministry of Interior to preserve national security in light of the unprecedented Iranian attacks targeting the Kingdom, which involved intensive use of missiles and drones and constituted a direct threat to Bahrain's sovereignty and safety.
General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah affirmed that Bahrain remains steadfast in defending its sovereignty and protecting citizens and residents under the leadership of His Majesty the King, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and within the framework of a comprehensive government approach led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, aimed at meeting the needs of citizens and residents through coordinated national efforts.
The Minister stressed that the meeting aims to reinforce societal cohesion and prevent any attempts to undermine national unity, commending the awareness and sense of responsibility demonstrated by citizens in standing firmly with their nation. He underscored that safeguarding Bahrain and preserving its unity is a national duty, highlighting the importance of loyalty, adherence to national constants, and prioritising the Kingdom's interests above all else. He added that Bahrain will continue to be a welcoming home for all loyal citizens who uphold its values and demonstrate sincere belonging, stressing the collective responsibility to preserve the nation's security, stability and cohesion for future generations.
General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah further noted that the Kingdom's history is rich with sacrifices and achievements that have laid the foundations for the security, stability and unity enjoyed today, underscoring the duty to safeguard this legacy and ensure its continuity.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Tariq bin Hassan Al Hassan, Chief of Police, delivered a security briefing outlining the overall security situation, the measures implemented to address the repercussions of the Iranian attacks, and the efforts of police, civil defence and ambulance servicemen in protecting lives and property, maintaining stability, and enhancing civil protection and public safety. He also highlighted the actions taken by the National Civil Emergency Management Committee.