Downing Street reported that the Prime Minister met His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, in Manama on 9 April. The government readout framed the discussion around regional security and the bilateral relationship.
According to the official account, the Prime Minister condemned the Iranian attacks on Bahrain. The statement reiterated that the United Kingdom stands alongside Bahrain and regional allies, signalling political solidarity and intent to coordinate responses through established diplomatic channels.
The UK also emphasised the need for the ceasefire to be upheld as a basis for longer‑term stability. While the readout did not set out new initiatives, it linked immediate security concerns to a wider diplomatic effort to reduce tensions and create conditions for sustained peace.
Both sides underlined a commitment to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and to consider viable plans to achieve this. No operational detail or timeline was released, indicating that options are being developed with partners before any public announcement.
The leaders reflected on the depth of UK‑Bahrain ties and highlighted defence collaboration as a continuing priority. The readout pointed to a desire to build further on existing cooperation, maintaining regular contact as work progresses.
For policy readers, ‘freedom of navigation’ refers to safe, uninterrupted passage for commercial and naval vessels under international law. Reaffirming this principle in relation to Hormuz is material for energy shipments and wider maritime traffic transiting the Gulf, shaping insurer assessments and industry risk planning even before specific measures are confirmed.
The reference to ‘viable plans’ suggests a structured process: political agreement, consultation with allies and maritime authorities, and, if required, security measures communicated via defence channels and industry advisories. Stakeholders should watch for subsequent FCDO guidance and any Royal Navy notifications.
The governments said they would speak again soon. The readout positions the UK alongside Bahrain on deterrence, de‑escalation and maritime security while keeping operational choices open pending further coordination.