Bahrain: A proxy battle?
Bahrain: A proxy battle?
Author(s): Petra Kartalová
Subject(s): International relations/trade, Peace and Conflict Studies
Published by: AMO – Asociace pro mezinárodní otázky
Summary/Abstract: Bahrain is a wealthy banking center and also an important American ally. U.S. 5th fleet is based here to ensure the flow of oil through the Hormuz Strait and to protect American interests in the region. Bahrain represents a crucial security interest for Saudi Arabia as well, given its geographical location across from the primary Saudi oil region. On the other hand, there is also considerable Iranian influence. Iran claimed Bahrain was an Iranian province in the past, but the Shah officially renounced the claim in 1971. However, today many Shia clerics in Bahrain have been trained in Iran and every now and then the issue of Iranian influence is raised. Put together, these aspects make Bahrain one of the most volatile countries in the Gulf and at the same time one of the most strategically important.
Series: Association for International Affairs - Briefing Papers
- Page Count: 6
- Publication Year: 2011
- Language: English
- Content File-PDF
