12 Nations, One Shield

TDT | Manama

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The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), in coordination with the Bahrain Defense Force, led a regional security dialogue in Bahrain, bringing together senior defense leaders from 12 nations to discuss evolving security challenges in the Middle East.

The meeting, chaired by CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper, included military officials from Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

Discussions focused on the current regional security environment and ways to strengthen defense cooperation across participating countries. Leaders also reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.

“We continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our regional partners,” Admiral Cooper said, noting that the discussions highlighted a collective commitment to regional stability and security.

Officials also reviewed ongoing security frameworks, including a multinational air and missile defense coordination system operating across the Middle East. CENTCOM and partner nations previously established a regional coordination cell to enhance information sharing, threat warnings, and response readiness.

The dialogue was particularly significant as it marked the first participation of military representatives from Syria and Lebanon in a U.S.-led regional defense conference, underscoring expanded engagement in regional security cooperation.