Bahrein

Bahrein, also spelled Bahrain, is a small island country in the Persian Gulf, part of the Gulf Cooperation Council. Its capital and largest city is Manama. The kingdom comprises Bahrain Island and about 30 smaller islands, connected to the Saudi mainland by the King Fahd Causeway. The total land area is about 765 square kilometers.

Historically, the area was part of Dilmun and later ruled by various empires. The Al Khalifa family established control in 1783. It became a British protectorate in 1861 and gained full independence from the United Kingdom in 1971. A constitutional monarchy was introduced in 2002, creating a bicameral National Assembly.

The government is a constitutional monarchy led by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa with Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa as head of government. The legislature is bicameral, comprising the elected Chamber of Deputies and the appointed Shura Council. Elections have been held periodically amid reform debates.

Economy: Bahrain has a diversified economy anchored in petroleum and natural gas, with a large financial services sector serving as a regional hub. Tourism, aluminum and light manufacturing also contribute. The country pursues diversification under national development plans.

Demographics and culture: The population is around 1.7 million, with expatriates forming a large share. Arabic is the official language; English is widely used in business and administration. Islam is the predominant faith, with both Sunni and Shia communities; minority Christians, Hindus and others are present.

International relations and security: Bahrein hosts the United States Fifth Fleet and maintains close security ties with Gulf neighbors, especially Saudi Arabia. It has faced domestic political tensions and human rights concerns, notably after the 2011 protests, leading to ongoing policy debates and reforms.