The issue of the GCC Union has been the highlight of the week in Bahrain leading to a demonstration led by Ayatollah Sh. Isa Qassim in Budaiya on Friday and the National Unity Gathering in Al Fateh Mosque that came out in support of the union on Saturday.
However, Bahraini loyalists have had different perspectives and views towards the gulf Union and the recent gatherings and protest in the Kingdom. We have noticed that people are mostly in favour of the Union since they feel it will that Saudi Arabia would provide them with security, while Bahrain is facing threats by Iran.
Ahmed 29, Budaiya stated “ Iran has always been vocal about its views towards the GCC and its recent statements show that it fears the Arabs uniting as it will be side stepped and will face a bigger threat”.
The National Unity Gathering which is considered the main loyalist camp has gathered on Saturday and declared its support for the union, Abdullah from Riffa stated “I refused to go to the gathering as they are predictable, I support the union but I do not support the gathering and other sectarian movements that fall under it’s umbrella”.
Bahrain have been raising questions about iran’s involvement with the February 14 movement but to many iran’s involvement has been clear due to the protests against the Gulf union in Tehran.
“ We have to talk the statement by Iranian hardliners into consideration, Larijani represent the government and people of Iran, hence this gives his words more weight” said Samar 32, Manama
Many saw that the National Unity Gathering on Saturday send a very simple message and that is there are many Bahrainis that support the GCC Union despite the opposition’s stance on the issue. “The protest movement in Bahrain will denounce anything that is not accepted or put forth by their higher powers, i.e. the Ayatollah” said Marwa, 43 from Saar.
The Bahraini opposition main demand is to put forward a referendum for the GCC Union, a matter which many loyalists considered pointless as the Union serves the country’s interest and should be supported “These issues must be dealt with by the responsible leaders of the countries and its vital for Bahrain to form a better connection with its brotherly neighbours” added Ahmed 29 from Budaiya.
Some others saw the referendum as a good option since the union should reflect the people’s will. “ There is no harm in having a referendum, but this might cause a delay that will not serve the interest of Bahrain” said Samar 32 from Manama
Layla 36 from Manama added “ People have put their faith in the parliament and the people’s representative should hence vote for the union or against it”
In conclusion the issue of the union seems to be of great influence to Bahrain’s economy and security. Loyalists have shown their support for the move and the opposition has repeatedly refused the union as it has done with every other step taken by the government. Loyalists consider Saudi as their protectors and the opposition considers Saudis as invaders.