Bahrain-Us Relations: Why This Alliance Matters

Bahrain is important to the US because of its strategic location in the Persian Gulf, its role in regional security, and its economic ties. Bahrain hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet and participates in US-led military coalitions. The two countries have a strong security partnership, with the US providing military assistance and equipment to Bahrain, which helps to strengthen their interoperability and counterterrorism efforts. Additionally, Bahrain has diversified its economy beyond oil and gas, creating opportunities for US businesses and investors. The US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement has further enhanced bilateral economic relations, with two-way trade exceeding $2 billion in 2021.

Bahrain hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet and US Naval Forces Central Command

Bahrain has been hosting the US Navy's Fifth Fleet and US Naval Forces Central Command since the early 1990s. The headquarters for Commander, United States Naval Forces Central Command (COMUSNAVCENT) / United States Fifth Fleet (COMFIFTHFLT) are based in Juffair, Bahrain. The base is home to around 6,000 United States military personnel.

Bahrain's hosting of the US Navy's Fifth Fleet is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it provides the United States with a strategic military presence in the Persian Gulf region, which is a crucial geopolitical area due to its vast oil reserves. By having a military base in Bahrain, the United States can project its power and influence in the region and protect its interests.

Secondly, Bahrain's location makes it an ideal site for a naval base. The country is an archipelago consisting of Bahrain Island and about 30 smaller islands, offering a range of options for naval operations. Additionally, Bahrain has a long history as a trading centre and harbour, with well-developed port facilities.

Finally, Bahrain has a close and long-standing relationship with the United States. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1971, and Bahrain has been a key ally in the region, participating in US-led military coalitions and supporting counter-terrorism efforts. Bahrain's cooperation has been essential in maintaining stability and security in the Persian Gulf.

The presence of the US Navy's Fifth Fleet in Bahrain not only enhances the military capabilities of the United States in the region but also reinforces the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries. It serves as a symbol of the United States' commitment to the region and plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power in the Middle East.

The US and Bahrain have a free trade agreement

The US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement (USBFTA) entered into force on January 11, 2006, and has been instrumental in generating export opportunities for both countries. The agreement has also supported Bahrain's economic and political reforms and enhanced commercial relations with a key player in the Arabian Gulf.

On the first day the USBFTA took effect, 100% of the two-way trade in industrial and consumer products between the US and Bahrain flowed without tariffs. This has resulted in a significant increase in agricultural exports to Bahrain for US farmers. Additionally, Bahrain has opened its services market wider than any previous FTA partner, creating new opportunities for US financial service providers and companies in sectors such as telecommunications, audiovisual, express delivery, distribution, healthcare, architecture, and engineering services.

The USBFTA has also promoted the policy of advancing economic reforms and liberalization in the Middle East. The agreement includes provisions for customs-related aspects, such as targeted technical assistance to Bahrain's customs authorities, and initiatives to monitor implementation and compliance with labour and environmental obligations.

The central oversight body for the USBFTA is the United States-Bahrain Joint Committee (JC), which is jointly chaired by the Office of the US Trade Representative and Bahrain's Ministry of Industry and Commerce. The JC holds meetings to discuss a range of trade issues and ensure effective implementation of the agreement.

The USBFTA has had a positive impact on Bahrain's economy, which has been diversifying away from oil and gas production. In 2021, two-way trade between the US and Bahrain exceeded $2 billion, up from $1.5 billion in 2020. Bahrain's primary exports to the US include aircraft, machinery, and motor vehicles, while its leading imports from the US include aluminum, oil, textiles, and plastics.

Bahrain is a vital US partner in defence initiatives

Bahrain was the first Arab state to lead a Coalition Task Force patrolling the Gulf region and has supported the coalition counter-piracy mission with a deployment of its flagship. In August 2019, Bahrain was the first country in the Gulf region to announce publicly that it had joined the US-led International Maritime Security Construct to promote freedom of navigation in the region.

The US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement (FTA) entered into force in 2006, generating additional commercial opportunities for both countries. In 2021, two-way trade exceeded $2 billion, up from $1.5 billion in 2020. The primary US exports to Bahrain include aircraft, machinery, and motor vehicles.

US assistance enables the Bahraini government to continue to obtain the equipment and training it requires to provide for its own defence and to operate alongside US air and naval forces. US assistance strengthens Bahrain’s interoperability for regional security and counterterrorism cooperation; boosts Bahrain’s maritime defences against smuggling and terrorism; and improves Bahrain’s ability to counter terrorism in a manner consistent with Bahrain’s international human rights obligations and commitments.

Bahrain is a member of the US-led anti-ISIL coalition

Bahrain's participation in the coalition is a reflection of its commitment to international agreements and its contribution to maintaining regional security. Bahrain recognizes the importance of curbing the activities of extremist organizations and is dedicated to enhancing its partnership in regional security. The kingdom also hosts the US Navy's Central Command, the US Fifth Fleet, and the Fifth Marine Expeditionary Brigade, reflecting its strong strategic partnership with the United States.

Bahrain's involvement in the coalition is also aligned with its previous efforts in international duty forces to combat piracy and its effective participation in coalitions to eliminate terrorist organizations, including the International Coalition to Eliminate ISIS. Bahrain's presence in these coalitions demonstrates its commitment to global security and stability and its position in international strategic alliances.

Bahrain is a Major Non-NATO Ally

Bahrain was designated a Major Non-NATO Ally in 2002, and the two countries have a long history of military cooperation. The United States recognised Bahrain's independence in 1971 and established diplomatic relations, opening an embassy in Manama. Bahrain has been a vital partner in defence initiatives and regional security ever since.

Bahrain's strategic location in the Persian Gulf has made it an important ally. The country is an archipelago consisting of Bahrain Island and about 30 smaller islands, with a total land area slightly larger than Singapore. Bahrain is situated between Qatar and Saudi Arabia's northeastern coast and is connected to Saudi Arabia by the King Fahd Causeway.

Bahrain's proximity to Saudi Arabia and Iran makes it a critical partner for the United States. The country has historically opened its port facilities to foreign naval fleets, and its territory includes important choke points for international maritime presence. Bahrain's small size and geography make it an inviting target, and it lies close to critical oil infrastructure and production facilities in the region.

In addition to security cooperation, Bahrain and the United States have a strong economic relationship. The U.S.-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement, which entered into force in 2006, has generated additional commercial opportunities and increased bilateral trade. Bahrain has been diversifying its economy away from oil and gas, attracting foreign investment, and the United States is a significant trade partner.

The United States has also supported Bahrain's efforts to develop its parliamentary institutional capacity and encouraged inclusive and transparent governance.

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