Bahrain Hosts Second National Defense and Security Forum

His Royal Highness Lieutenant-General Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Advisor, Commander of the Royal Guard, and Secretary-General of the Supreme Defense Council, affirmed Bahrain’s commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, to adopting modern security concepts that enhance strategic resilience. These initiatives are considered essential for maintaining national security and ensuring readiness to address evolving regional and international challenges.

HRH Shaikh Nasser made these remarks during the opening of the second edition of the National Defense and Security Forum, held in Manama. The event was attended by His Highness Brigadier-General Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Commander of Royal Guard Special Operations, Shaikh Khalid bin Ali bin Jaber Al Khalifa, Deputy National Security Advisor and Deputy Secretary-General of the Supreme Defense Council, as well as senior international diplomats including Alistair Long, UK Ambassador to Bahrain, and Stephanie Hallett, US Ambassador to Bahrain. Vice Admiral Kurt Reinsho, Commander of the US Naval Forces Central Command and Fifth Fleet, also participated, alongside a distinguished group of national leaders and military and security experts.

HRH Shaikh Nasser highlighted that the forum builds on the success of its first edition, aiming to develop shared visions that enhance the military and security sectors’ capacity for rapid adaptation and response. This approach reflects the Kingdom’s royal vision and deep belief in the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure comprehensive and sustainable national security, contributing to the preservation of peace and stability.

He also expressed his sincere gratitude to all relevant authorities for their constructive contributions to the preparation and organization of the forum, praising the achievements that demonstrate the efficiency and integration of Bahrain’s institutions in a spirit of teamwork.

Organized by the Secretariat of the Supreme Defense Council, the forum will run from 10 to 11 February 2026 and feature discussion sessions focused on strategic resilience and mechanisms to sustain national security amid current challenges.