Manama: Dr. Ali bin Mohamed Al Romaihi, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee of the Shura Council, stated that the Kingdom of Bahrain's stance, as articulated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs concerning the proposed ministerial meeting on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, underscores a steadfast national position rooted in commitment to dialogue and peace, while acknowledging the brutal Iranian attacks against the Kingdom targeting its infrastructure and civilian sites.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Romaihi affirmed that Bahrain remains a nation of peace and dialogue, adhering to the principles of good-neighbourliness and the resolution of disputes through diplomatic and legal channels. He highlighted that genuine dialogue cannot dismiss attacks or their repercussions, nor should it serve as a means to grant the aggressor political advantages without holding it accountable for its actions and the resulting damage.
Dr. Al Romaihi stressed the significance of ensuring that the aggressor is not rewarded for its hostility and that returning to the negotiation table should not replace international responsibility or overlook the violations that have occurred. He asserted that a just and enduring peace commences with ending the attacks, assuming responsibility, repairing the inflicted damage, and respecting the sovereignty of states and the security of their citizens.
He further emphasized that the attacks on Bahrain and the targeting of civilian and economic facilities in the region illustrate that the threat persists. He stated that regional security cannot be founded on appeasement or disregarding attacks, but rather on clear rules that protect states and peoples and safeguard their sovereignty.
Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Dr. Al Romaihi remarked that freedom of navigation in international straits and waterways is a right governed by international law, not a political tool or a means of coercion. He stressed the necessity for Iran to adhere to international treaties and laws governing maritime navigation, particularly frameworks ensuring the right of transit passage for ships without discrimination or imposition of fees or permits.
Dr. Al Romaihi emphasized that any arrangements concerning navigation in the Strait of Hormuz should rely on a clear international legal foundation, endorsed by the International Maritime Organisation, with the participation of all Gulf Cooperation Council states, due to the direct connection between the security of this crucial waterway and the security, supplies, and economic interests of the GCC states.
He concluded by stating that Bahrain's position merges commitment to peace with the commitment to justice. He explained that the Kingdom seeks a genuine peace that secures the region's security and the future of its peoples, rather than a peace that overlooks attacks or rewards those responsible. He added that opening doors to dialogue must be accompanied by respect for international law, accountability, and assurances against the recurrence of attacks, as lasting peace can only be founded on justice and righteousness.