UK PM Keir Starmer and Bahrain Crown Prince Hold Talks on Regional Security and Iran Tensions.

London:

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer held a high-level call on 21 March 2026 with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, focusing on escalating regional tensions and coordinated efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and maritime security.

During the conversation, the Prime Minister briefed the Crown Prince on the United Kingdom’s latest support measures for Bahrain, including the deployment of a specialist team to assist in countering drone attacks. The move comes amid growing concerns over aerial threats targeting key facilities in the region.

Both leaders strongly condemned what they described as ongoing attacks by Iran on critical national infrastructure and disruptions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. They emphasized the need for collective action to ensure the safety of international maritime operations.

The Prime Minister also provided an update on the United States’ use of UK military bases as part of a broader collective self-defence effort in the region. These operations are aimed at degrading missile systems and capabilities believed to be responsible for attacks on commercial shipping.

Diplomatic developments were also a central part of the discussion. The UK welcomed Bahrain’s decision to join a growing coalition of nations endorsing a UK-led joint statement condemning Iran’s actions and calling for de-escalation. The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s continued leadership at the United Nations, particularly in efforts to advance a resolution to the conflict.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation, and agreed to remain in close contact as the situation evolves.