Bahrain Celebrates National Day and 25th Anniversary of King Hamad’s Accession
Bahrain celebrated its National Day on December 16, marking the 1783 founding of the modern Bahraini state by Ahmed Al Fateh and the 25th anniversary of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s rule. The events highlighted the small island nation’s historical milestones and strategic importance in the Persian Gulf.
Located in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands that serves as a vital connection between the Middle East and the global community.
This holiday season, give to:
Truth and understanding
The Media Line's intrepid correspondents are in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Pakistan providing first-person reporting.
They all said they cover it.
We see it.
We report with just one agenda: the truth.
Prominent figures gathered at Bahrain’s embassy in Washington on Friday for a reception commemorating the occasion. Former US House Speaker Paul Ryan joined military and diplomatic officials, lawmakers, and others to celebrate Bahrain’s achievements. Bahrain’s Ambassador Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa reflected on the country’s development and emphasized the enduring partnership between Bahrain and the United States. Ryan praised Bahrain as a strategic partner, recognizing its designation as a major non-NATO ally, its role as host of the US Fifth Fleet, and the ongoing success of the US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement signed in 2004.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also issued a press release Monday, commending Bahrain’s leadership under King Hamad. He highlighted the nation’s commitment to peace, religious tolerance, and economic growth, citing milestones such as the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement.
Bahrain’s National Day celebrations extended beyond its borders. In the United Arab Emirates, Sharjah Airport joined in the festivities by welcoming Bahraini travelers with traditional Arabic coffee, gifts, and warm hospitality.
Bahrain’s governance is divided between its monarch, who serves as head of state, and its appointed prime minister, who heads the government. The current prime minister, Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, is also the king’s son.
