Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa (Bahrain Prime Minister) – IISS Manama Dialogue 2023 | Keynote Address (Nov 2023)
Chapters
Abstract
“Two Decades of Dialogue, Diplomacy, and Diversification: Reflecting on the Manama Dialogue’s Impact on Middle East Security and Beyond”
In the span of two decades, the IISS Manama Dialogue has transformed from a strategic initiative into a pivotal platform for Middle East security discussions. Initiated through a collaboration between John Chipman and the Crown Prince of Bahrain, the Dialogue has fostered a space for key discussions on peace, security, and strategic diversification. As it approaches its 20th anniversary, the Dialogue’s relevance is underscored by the recent escalations in the Middle East, including the resurgence of conflict in Gaza and shifting geopolitical dynamics. This article delves into the Dialogue’s history, its evolving role in addressing regional conflicts, the strategic approaches of participating nations, and the broader implications for the global rules-based order.
Origins of the IISS Manama Dialogue:
The IISS Manama Dialogue, emerging from a conversation between John Chipman and the Crown Prince of Bahrain, was established to fill a critical gap in the Middle East – a regional forum for strategic thinking. Envisioned as a platform for leaders and experts to engage in strategic dialogue, it has seen significant growth over the years, underpinned by the vision and commitment of Bahraini leadership.
Growth and Success of the Dialogue:
Initially known as the IISS Gulf Dialogue, the Manama Dialogue has evolved into a significant event in the international diplomatic calendar. Its development is a testament to the trust and commitment of the Bahraini leadership and its pivotal role in discussing Middle East security issues.
Purpose and Ambition:
The Dialogue aspires to sustain strategic thinking in an era where tactical approaches are prevalent. It serves as a dynamic platform for diplomacy and discussion on Middle East security, striving to promote international peace and security.
20th Anniversary and Future:
As the Dialogue approaches its 20th anniversary, there’s an ongoing commitment to providing a forum for strategic discussions on Middle East security, reflecting its increasing significance in regional and global geopolitics.
Tragic Circumstances and Renewed Conflict:
The Middle East has recently regressed from diplomatic progress to renewed conflicts, characterized by terror tactics, wars, and humanitarian crises. The recent Hamas terror attack and Israel’s response have exacerbated tensions, prompting interventions by major powers to contain threats. The U.S. is particularly challenged with deterring escalation from both Iran and Israel.
Need for an Administration in Waiting for Gaza:
In response to the Gaza conflict, a proposal has emerged for forming an ‘administration in waiting’ by a coalition of willing countries. This proposed administration, credible to all parties involved, aims to assume authority post-conflict, underlining the necessity for innovative diplomatic solutions.
Strategic Diversification and Portfolio Management:
In light of shifting geopolitical dynamics, Middle Eastern leaders are increasingly adopting strategies of strategic diversification and portfolio management. This approach, similar to financial hedging, necessitates adept relationship management, especially for smaller nations, to safeguard stability and security.
Keynote Speaker: Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain:
In his keynote address, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain highlighted the significance of strategic diversification and portfolio management amidst current geopolitical uncertainties. He outlined Bahrain’s response through economic reforms, fiscal discipline, and strategic partnerships.
Bahrain’s Economic and Political Progress:
Bahrain has shown commendable pandemic management and economic reforms. Its Fiscal Balance Programme, featuring taxes, subsidy reforms, and controlled spending, has bolstered the economy. Strategic projects, including a new airport, amphitheater, and an expanded aluminum smelter, alongside the adoption of new technologies in government services, have strengthened Bahrain’s economy. Bahrain’s commitment to bilateral ties and cooperation is evident in the signing of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-CIPA) with the United States.
The Global Rules-Based Order and the Russia-Ukraine Conflict:
The rules-based global order, traditionally promoting peace through international cooperation, is currently challenged by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This situation emphasizes the importance of collective action and adherence to international law, focusing on protecting innocent lives and seeking peaceful resolutions.
Religious Obligations and Moral Responsibility:
Both Islam and Judaism emphasize the protection of innocent lives as a paramount moral and religious duty. The failure to adhere to this obligation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict has attracted international condemnation.
Personal Reflections and Empathy:
Considering the humanitarian impact on civilians in Gaza, the importance of nuanced discussions and avoiding oversimplified positions in addressing complex conflicts is stressed.
Call for Action:
A strong call for international action has been made to halt the violence in Gaza, protect innocent lives, and address the root causes of the conflict, underscoring the need for a collective, collaborative approach.
Condemnation of Attacks and Casualties:
Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has condemned the attacks on October 7, which resulted in significant civilian casualties, including women, children, and the elderly. The Israeli air campaign in Gaza and its devastating human cost were also unequivocally condemned.
Breaking the Cycle of Hostilities:
To break the cycle of violence, immediate actions such as the release of hostages held by Hamas and Israel are crucial. Ensuring access to humanitarian aid and full implementation of international law are essential steps toward peace.
Call for Hostage Release and Ceasefire:
A direct call was made for Hamas to release women and children hostages in exchange for Palestinian women and children held by Israel, emphasizing this as a crucial step toward peace.
Addressing the Root Cause: The Two-State Solution:
The deep-rooted nature of the conflict necessitates a comprehensive two-state solution. The United States is viewed as a key player in leading this process, ensuring no forced displacement, reoccupation, or reduction in Gaza’s territory, and preventing terrorism from Gaza against Israelis.
The article concludes with Al Khalifa’s call for immediate action to break the cycle of violence through hostage release and adherence to international law. It reiterates the need for a two-state solution and the involvement of key global players like the United States in achieving lasting peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians.
Base Rules of War:
The article underscores that military conflict cannot be the ultimate solution to international disagreements, advocating for diplomacy and international law.
Erosion of Rules-Based Order:
The erosion of the rules-based order is a concerning trend, potentially leading to conflicts where powerful states impose their will on weaker ones.
Consequences of Inaction:
Inaction in Gaza could have global consequences, potentially allowing acts of violence to spread through social media.
Historical Parallels:
Historical parallels are drawn to the rise of al-Qaeda post the Russian invasion of Afghanistan and the emergence of ISIS following the invasion of Iraq.
Call to Action:
A final call to action stresses the need to work across political lines to end the war in Gaza, warning of a future marked by violence and instability if the conflict continues unchecked.
Addressing Conflict in the Middle East: Seeking a Two-State Solution:
The barbaric attacks in Gaza and the air campaign in Israel have led to civilian deaths, including women, children, and the elderly. Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa stresses the importance of ending the cycle of violence and working towards a peaceful resolution. The release of hostages on both sides, including women, children, and non-combatants, is crucial to breaking hostilities. Ensuring access to humanitarian aid is essential for the well-being of civilians in Gaza. The implementation of international law and strong leadership from regional and international powers, especially the United States, is critical in facilitating a two-state solution. Preventing forced displacement, reoccupation, and reduction of Gaza’s territory, as well as ceasing terrorism against the Israeli public, are vital.
Crippling Conflict, Eroding Order, and Consequences:
The conflict and force in military engagements must not dictate international outcomes; instead, diplomacy and international law should prevail. The situation in Gaza requires urgent diplomatic efforts, and inaction risks spreading violence globally. Lessons from past conflicts, like the creation of al-Qaeda post the Russian invasion of Afghanistan and the rise of ISIS following the invasion of Iraq, show that the current conflict in Gaza could have similar consequences due to the influence of social media. Therefore, an urgent call to action is made to end the conflict in Gaza, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to promote a peaceful resolution and warning of a future marked by violence and instability if left unchecked.
Notes by: TransistorZero