Bahrain hosts Gulf-wide counterterrorism exercise
The training drill, named Arab Gulf Security 1, is generally seen as a first step toward a more unified security force in the region.
An impressive array of law enforcement manpower and equipment is on display in Bahrain to support a variety of drills simulating security threats from extremist organizations and other adversaries. The scenarios involve invasion, rescue, and the handling of insurgents.
The head of the Saudi delegation, Major General Moaidh al-Jaban, said the Gulf forces had achieved their targeted goals in the first week and that healthy competition between the participating countries was contributing to a high level of competency and preparedness.
As the exercise moves into its second week drills will focus on emergency response, counterterrorism and border security.
“The exercise sends a message that the six GCC states support each other against any threat,” said Bahrain’s Minister of Interior, Lieutenant General Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa. “We are now better prepared to face challenges currently unfolding in the region.”
Arab Gulf Security 1 is the result of a GCC security agreement that was struck during the 16th Ministers of Interior meeting in Doha in April 2015 to reinforce joint counterterrorism capabilities.
