Evil deeds done in dark places

Bahrain, facing Shi’ite unrest, considering federation with Saudis
19 February, 2012 – Grendel Report

ABU DHABI — A leading parliamentarian has urged Manama to propose a formal union between Bahrain and neighboring Saudi Arabia in an effort to deal with the threat of an Iranian-backed Shi’ite revolt.

Parliamentarian Adel Al Muawda said the proposal has been endorsed by the Saudi leadership.

“Bahrain should make the first move towards the union that will be joined by the other members of the GCC,” Al Muawda said.

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are regarded as having the closest relations of any two GCC states. A 25-kilometer causeway links the two countries and Saudis flock to Bahrain for Western-style entertainment.

“We have the same identity and the same social, cultural and economic fabric,” Al Muawda said. “We can learn from the European Union, and as long as there is determination, there should be no obstacle.”

Both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been battling what they termed Iranian-sponsored Shi’ite unrest. On Feb. 10, Saudi police were said to have killed a Shi’ite gunmen in the Eastern Province while Bahraini security forces hurled tear gas and sound grenades in a clash with Shi’ite demonstrators in Manama. Two Americans were also said to have been arrested during the Manama protest.

In December, Saudi King Abdullah urged the other five GCC states to consider a formal union. Abdullah said such a move would bolster military and financial security amid threats from neighboring Iran.

“There are also impediments and divergences on the foreign policies of some GCC countries that may stall the move towards a Gulf confederation,” Al Muawda, who raised the issue with Bahrain Foreign Minister Khalid Bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, said.

The GCC has established a panel to examine the feasibility of a Gulf Arab union. Al Muawda, a strong supporter of Riyad, said Bahrain should be the first country to merge with Saudi Arabia.

“This is a crucial issue and cannot be procrastinated or delayed as the conditions in the region are becoming vitally sensitive and critically ominous,” Al Muawda said. “There are too many intricately dangerous layers in the region and no country can handle them without support from others. …source