Politics · Other · 6 hrs ago
Bahrain to return ambassador to Iraq after prime minister’s visit
Bahrain will send its ambassador back to Baghdad, restoring full diplomatic representation between the two countries.
The decision followed a visit to Bahrain by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, the first by an Iraqi prime minister in more than two decades.
The move eases a rift after Bahrain’s ambassador left Baghdad in April amid regional tensions and a protest over drone attacks by Iran-backed militias.
The groups said the attacks targeted US military bases in Bahrain.
Iraq wants stronger ties with Gulf states as it seeks to act as a mediator between regional powers rather than a battleground.
Al-Zaidi has also proposed talks involving the Gulf Co-operation Council states, Iraq and Iran.
The two governments say they want closer cooperation, including in political and economic areas.
Bahrain’s return of its ambassador marks a step towards normalising relations, but the countries’ ministers also stressed the need for continued regional coordination.
Bahrain has decided to send an ambassador back to Iraq, restoring full diplomatic representation after a period of tension.
The decision followed Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s visit to Bahrain, the first by an Iraqi prime minister in more than two decades.
Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani conveyed the decision in a phone call with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein.
Bahrain’s ambassador left Baghdad in April amid regional tensions and protests over drone attacks by Iran-backed militias.
Al-Zaidi said his visit aimed to revive ties, and the two countries discussed regional developments and co-operation.
- Who
- Bahrain and Iraq. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani conveyed the decision to Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein.
- What
- Bahrain will send an ambassador back to Baghdad, restoring its diplomatic representation in Iraq.
- When
- The decision was conveyed on Saturday, November 7, 2026, according to the article published the following day.
- Where
- Baghdad and Manama.
- Why
- The decision followed Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s visit and reflects Bahrain’s aim to strengthen relations and expand co-operation.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Bahrain’s ambassador Khalid Al Mansour left Baghdad amid regional tension, and Manama summoned Iraq’s charge d’affaires in protest against drone attacks by Iran-backed militias.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi visited Bahrain and was welcomed by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad.
Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani told Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein that Bahrain would restore its ambassador to Baghdad.
- Bahrain’s decision
- Send an ambassador back to Baghdad
- Iraqi prime minister
- Ali al-Zaidi
- Bahraini foreign minister
- Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani
- Iraqi foreign minister
- Fuad Hussein
- Visit date
- November 4, 2026
- Ambassador who left Baghdad
- Khalid Al Mansour
What people are saying
keenness to strengthen relations with Iraq and expand prospects for joint cooperation
strengthening and advancing bilateral relations with Bahrain across various fields
revive the historic relationship between the two countries
historic