NEW YORK February 28, 2026 – Bahrain’s representative to the United Nations has strongly condemned Iran, holding Tehran fully accountable for missile and drone strikes that targeted Bahraini soil during Iran’s retaliatory barrage against U.S. and allied assets in the Gulf.
Speaking at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Saturday, the Bahraini delegate declared:
“We hold the government of Iran fully responsible for these attacks, and the kingdom rejects any justifications or explanations aiming at justifying these hostile activities or to violate international law.
“Targeting our territories is a hostile act that is rejected, and we will deal with it firmly.”
The statement came hours after Iran launched waves of missiles and drones at U.S. military installations across the region in response to earlier U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets. Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama’s Juffair district, confirmed that attacks struck sites and facilities within its borders. Local media and residents reported explosions, fires near residential towers, and activation of air defense systems, though no major casualties were immediately detailed in official statements.
Bahrain described the strikes as a flagrant violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, joining other Gulf nations — including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan — in denouncing the Iranian actions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned both the initial U.S.-Israeli operation and Iran’s retaliatory attacks, urging an immediate de-escalation to prevent further regional instability.
The emergency Security Council session was requested by Bahrain (as the Arab representative on the Council), along with France, Russia, China, and Colombia.
Bahrain’s firm stance reflects the kingdom’s long-standing concerns over Iranian-backed threats and its commitment to defending its territory in coordination with international partners. Officials have emphasized that the kingdom reserves the right to respond appropriately under international law.
This latest escalation follows reports of significant developments in Iran, including the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the U.S.-Israeli strikes, according to multiple sources.
Arab News captured the moment live as the Bahraini representative addressed the Council, underscoring the gravity of the situation for Gulf security.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments at the United Nations and in the region.
