Bahrain's King, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifah, says his country is working to strengthen diplomatic relations with Iran, after strained ties for over eight years. 

During his visit, the King made his remarks during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, adding that his country aims for peace, forgiveness, human coexistence and dialogue, and diplomacy. 

He said, "We believe in the principle of good neighborliness and non-interference in internal affairs," adding "We are working to restore diplomatic relations with Iran as a neighbor."

Hamad expressed his country's appreciation for China's support in promoting peace and stability in West Asia. He also welcomed China's efforts, along with other relevant parties, to address the situation in Palestine.

Saudi-Iran detente, Bahrain to follow?

In March 2023, Iran and Saudi Arabia reached an agreement in the Chinese capital of Beijing to restore their diplomatic relations and re-open embassies and missions.

On January 4, 2016, Bahrain followed Saudi Arabia in severing diplomatic relations with Iran. 

Last week, the first deputy speaker of Bahrain’s Council of Representatives announced that the country plans to take measures soon to revive diplomatic relations with Iran.

"Resumption of political and commercial relations between the two countries is of great importance because Iran is a neighboring country and Bahrain supports stable ties with all regional states," Abdulnabi Salman said. 

He mentioned that the desire to resume relations between Manama and Tehran has received a positive response from the Bahraini government and the Council of Representatives. The legislature has even issued a positive statement regarding this matter.

During a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on May 23, Bahrain’s King Hamad stated that Manama is looking forward to improving its relations with Iran. He added that there was no reason to postpone the restoration of diplomatic relations between Bahrain and Iran, according to the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA).

Last week, Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif al-Zayani visited Tehran to offer condolences on the passing of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his companions.