On Thursday, high-level officials gathered at the Pentagon to reinforce the longstanding defense partnership between the United States and Bahrain. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, welcomed Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who also serves as the country’s prime minister and deputy supreme commander of the Armed Forces.
During the opening of the meeting, Hegseth expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s enduring support of U.S. military installations, particularly highlighting the critical role of Bahrain as host to the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet since 1995. “The Kingdom of Bahrain has been a long-standing partner of the Department of Defense,” Hegseth stated, thanking the crown prince for welcoming thousands of U.S. service members and their families over the years.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth holds a meeting with Bahrain Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa at the Pentagon, July 17, 2025. © Air Force Staff Sgt. Madelyn Keech
The Secretary noted Bahrain’s pivotal contribution to recent military operations, emphasizing the country’s support for U.S. Central Command’s Operation Midnight Hammer, a strike on Iranian nuclear facilities conducted on June 22, 2025. Hegseth affirmed that the U.S. can consistently rely on Bahrain’s commitment to regional security.
Additionally, he acknowledged Bahrain’s role as one of the original signatories of the Abraham Accords in 2020, which aimed to normalize relations between Israel and several Arab nations. “You are committed to peace through strength, just like we are in that region,” he remarked.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth holds a meeting with Bahrain Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa at the Pentagon, July 17, 2025. © Air Force Staff Sgt. Madelyn Keech
Crown Prince Salman highlighted the historical roots of the U.S.-Bahrain relationship, noting that while formal ties were established in 1948 with the agreement for a permanent U.S. naval presence, the connection dates back to 1893 when U.S. missionaries first arrived in Bahrain. “We will continue to deepen this relationship… we are so proud of this strong cooperation, and I am all ears to hear how we can best help,” Salman stated, indicating his eagerness to discuss defense needs and joint efforts moving forward.
The meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration and mutual interests of the two nations in promoting stability and security in the region, reinforcing their commitment to working together in the face of evolving challenges.
