A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: Bahrain
Summary
In 1968, when the British Government announced its decision (reaffirmed in March 1971) to end the treaty relationships with the Persian Gulf sheikdoms, Bahrain initially joined the other eight states (Qatar and the seven Trucial Sheikhdoms now the United Arab Emirates) under British protection in an effort to form a union of Arab emirates. The nine sheikhdoms still had not agreed on terms of union by 1971, however, prompting Bahrain to declare itself fully independent on August 15, 1971.
Recognition
U.S. Recognition of Bahraini Independence, 1971.
The United States recognized the State of Bahrain on August 15, 1971, when the Department of State issued a press release to that effect.
Diplomatic Relations
Establishment of Diplomatic Relationsand the American Embassy in Bahrain, 1971.
Embassy Manama was opened on September 21, 1971, with John N. Gatch, Jr. as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim. Ambassador William A. Soltzfus, Jr. presented credentials to the government of Bahrain on February 17, 1972 and was resident at Kuwait for the duration of his posting.
Installation of American Ambassador at Manama, 1974.
Ambassador Joseph W. Twinam presented credentials to the government of Bahrain on June 10, 1974, and became the first American ambassador resident at Embassy Manama.