King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Leading Bahrain's defense response while chairing the Gulf Cooperation Council

Since February 28, the US-Iran war has expanded to include critical water infrastructure. On March 8, Iran struck a Bahrain desalination plant.

Updated May 30

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Head of state directing the post-strike security response

A Bahraini court sentenced nine people to life on Sunday for spying for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Two others got three years. The verdict is the latest in a string of prosecutions Manama has pushed through since Iranian missiles and drones hit the kingdom in February.

Updated May 24