In conjunction with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s visit to the region, U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Senior Policy Advisor to the Secretary of State Brian Hook returned to Bahrain on January 15 and spoke about U.S.-Iran policy at the Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) in a specially arranged roundtable discussion.

 

In his opening remarks, Special Representative Hook said, “Bahrain is a key partner in our Iran strategy.”  He continued: “Iran’s support of proxies here in Bahrain is part of a much larger strategy to destabilize the region.  Iran must stop testing and proliferating missiles, stop launching and developing nuclear-capable missiles, and stop supporting its militias in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Bahrain, and Yemen.”

 

Mr. Hook also emphasized: “Together, our two nations work closely to promote stability and strengthen security.  Iran, on the other hand, has tried to weaken national identity in Bahrain and create sectarian divisions.  But Bahrain’s leaders have responded by deepening their commitment to peaceful coexistence and religious freedom.”

 

Dr. Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Chairman of Derasat affirmed the longstanding relations between Bahrain and the United States, and Bahrain’s commitment to the US’s strategy to combat Iran’s destabilizing activities.

 

The Chairman also commented, “This meeting highlighted the importance of convening relevant stakeholders in Research Centers such as Derasat as a way of coordinating efforts and creating partnerships and we look forward to continue our efforts in this regard.”