Bahrain Receives Credentials of Israel's New Ambassador Amid Regional Tensions

Bahrain's Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani formally received the credentials of Israel’s new ambassador to Bahrain, Shmuel Revel, marking a significant step in the ongoing diplomatic relations between the two countries. This exchange comes after Bahrain recalled its ambassador to Israel in November 2023 to support the Palestinian cause following the deadly Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, which led to the ongoing Gaza war. Despite these tensions, both sides emphasized efforts to promote regional peace, security, and stability during the credentialing ceremony. Bahrain, a signatory of the Abraham Accords and home to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, initially normalized ties with Israel in 2020, joining the United Arab Emirates in a breakthrough for regional diplomacy. The renewal of diplomatic engagement highlights continuing cooperation and dialogue amid complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. The meeting was attended by senior Bahraini officials, underscoring the importance of this diplomatic development.