Israel, Bahrain hold talks on regional stability

ISTANBUL

Israeli army Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi on Thursday met in Manama with Bahraini Defense Minister Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa for talks on stability in the region.

Discussions between the two officials dwelt on topics pertaining to enhancing regional stability, in addition to issues of mutual concern, the Bahraini state news agency reported.

Kochavi arrived in Bahrain on Wednesday for an unscheduled visit. He will meet with Brad Cooper, commander of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet, during his visit.

Several Israeli officials visited Bahrain in recent months, including Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Defense Minister Benny Gantz.

Bahrain was among four Arab countries – the United Arab Emirates, Sudan and Morocco -- that signed US-sponsored agreements to normalize relations with Israel in 2020.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar