White House Commends the Restoration of Relations between Bahrain and Lebanon

In a positive development, the White House expressed its approval on Tuesday regarding Bahrain’s move to reestablish diplomatic relations with Lebanon. The decision comes after Bahrain had previously severed ties with Beirut in response to comments made by Lebanon’s former information minister.

Over the weekend, Bahrain announced its intention to fully restore diplomatic relations with Lebanon, which had been severed due to the remarks made by the minister. Acting White House National Security Council Spokesman Adam Hodge stated, “The United States welcomes the restoration of diplomatic ties between Bahrain and Lebanon—an important step forward to advance our shared vision of a more integrated, stable, and prosperous Middle East.”

The United States welcomes the restoration of diplomatic ties between Bahrain and Lebanon—an important step forward to advance our shared vision of a more integrated, stable, and prosperous Middle East.

— Adam Hodge (@NSC_Spox) May 23, 2023

The diplomatic rift initially began when Saudi Arabia recalled its diplomats in 2021 following criticisms made by former minister George Kordahi, who had voiced concerns about Riyadh’s role in the Yemen war. Subsequently, several Gulf countries followed suit after Kordahi, a Christian politician supported by Hezbollah, made his remarks.

Although Kordahi eventually resigned after an initial refusal to do so, tensions persisted between Gulf countries and Lebanon on political and diplomatic fronts. Bahrain’s foreign ministry was particularly displeased with Lebanon for allowing a press conference to be held by individuals designated by Manama as sponsors or supporters of terrorism.

Overall, the White House views Bahrain’s decision to restore diplomatic ties with Lebanon as a positive step towards promoting a more integrated, stable, and prosperous Middle East.