Iraqi-Bahraini Political Relations until 1969

Abstract

Iraqi-Bahraini relations have witnessed gradual development since the monarchy in Iraq (1921–1958). Initially, they were characterized by informal cordiality, rooted in shared Arab ties and a common regional framework. During the reigns of King Faisal I and later Faisal II, Bahrain was under British protection, which meant that official communications often passed through British channels. Nevertheless, Iraq maintained its interest in the Arabian Gulf region, considering it part of its strategic Arab sphere, particularly given the international competition for influence in the region and its growing oil importance.

          Limited cultural and commercial ties, along with student and merchant traffic, contributed to a kind of indirect communication between the two societies, despite the absence of full diplomatic representation. Iraq viewed Bahrain as part of the Arab world, deserving of political and moral support. Following the July 14, 1958 revolution and the fall of the monarchy, Iraq entered a new phase under the leadership of Abdul Karim Qasim. Its foreign policy shifted towards affirming Arab identity and opposing colonial influence. This was reflected in its stance towards Bahrain, which was still under British influence. Iraq supported liberation movements in the Gulf and affirmed in its official pronouncements the right of the Gulf peoples to self-determination without foreign interference.

          During the rule of Abdul Salam Arif and then Abdul Rahman Arif, relations continued within their broader Arab framework, with increasing rhetoric supporting the independence of the Gulf emirates and strengthening joint Arab action. By 1969, with the rise of Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr, a clearer focus on Gulf issues emerged, paving the way for a later phase characterized by closer political and economic ties as Bahrain moved closer to independence, and by consolidating Arab cooperation in the face of regional challenges.