In times of crises and wars, it is not only the positions of states that are revealed, but also the true nature of individuals. Just as in personal conflicts, difficult moments expose what lies beneath. Today, amid Iranian aggression, the reality of many has become clear—both inside Bahrain and abroad, as well as among the enemies of the Gulf.

Iranian propaganda is not merely passing media rhetoric; it is a comprehensive system built on psychological influence, reshaping awareness, and planting doubt within societies. It relies on repetition, manipulation of concepts, and the promotion of distorted narratives that dress falsehood in the appearance of truth.

Among its tools is the exploitation of religion and emotional slogans to gain sympathy and lend legitimacy to political positions, alongside playing on a sense of victimhood to fuel division within societies. It also depends on spreading rumors and misinformation—especially during times of wars & crisis—to confuse public opinion and undermine trust between citizens and governments. One cannot ignore the role of electronic armies and directed media platforms that amplify certain narratives, attack any patriotic voice, distort its image, and accuse it of division or disloyalty.

It also uses a strategy of constant doubt—not to find the truth, but to keep people confused, unable to tell right from wrong. In the end, the goal is clear: to influence minds from within and weaken societies without direct confrontation.

Historically, this regime has followed an approach rooted in the idea of an “export-based ideological system,” whereby Iran does not confine itself to managing internal affairs but seeks to “export its revolution” beyond its borders since 1979, following the Iranian Revolution. Since then, its leaders have consistently promoted a clear narrative of expanding influence, emphasizing that the revolution is not limited to Iran and that its reach extends across the region.

Bahrain has not been immune to these ambitions. In fact, such claims go back even before the revolution, during the Shah’s era, when Iran made historical claims over Bahrain. These reflected a desire for control and influence. However, these ambitions were firmly rejected by Arab and Gulf countries. Saudi Arabia, led by King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, played a key role in supporting Bahrain’s sovereignty and rejecting these claims.

This position, along with Arab and international support, helped secure Bahrain’s independence. This was later confirmed by a 1970 referendum under United Nations supervision, where the Bahraini people affirmed their Arab identity and rejected any external control.

Despite this, these ambitions did not stop. After 1979, they returned in a new form through the idea of “exporting the revolution,” using different methods that combine ideology with indirect actions.

Since the 1980s, there have been both direct and indirect attempts to interfere in Bahrain. These include support for terrorist groups and the spread of political and media narratives that question its sovereignty. Statements by Iranian officials over the years reflect this expansionist mindset—one that prioritizes influence over respect for national borders.

Under this thinking, all countries become “permissible” within this sphere of influence—a concept clearly reflected in Iranian rhetoric, which carries a clear expansionist tone.

One of the most dangerous aspects of this approach is the combination of propaganda with what are known as “sleeper cells.” Propaganda prepares the ground by shaping opinions, while these cells take advantage of critical moments to spread chaos, incite violence, and influence public opinion from within—as seen recently during this war and previously in 2011. Often, they hide behind religious or human rights slogans, while in reality serving external agendas.

What is most concerning today is the presence of individuals who place Iran above their own country. To them, Bahrain is just a stage, while Iran is the reference point. This is where the real danger lies—when ideology comes before national belonging, and your homeland comes last.

This propaganda also works by reversing the truth—portraying the defense of your homeland and its leadership as “false patriotism.” In reality, this is simply a projection of their own actions, used to confuse people and distort understanding.

Therefore, it is essential today to stay aware. Do not let anyone make you question your patriotism, or accuse you of division simply because you defend your homeland. Your homeland is not a choice—it is the foundation. Whoever places anything above it forfeits their claim to it.

This is what Iran has done, and history proves it. It has been a source of instability and unrest in many Arab countries through both direct and indirect methods, and through rhetoric that hides its true intentions behind slogans that appear just, but are used for control.

Today, our battle is not only missiles and drones—it is also words, a stand, and awareness. Defending your homeland is not only about weapons, but also about being strong, clear, and not falling for lies. Do not be influenced by those who say there is no need to prove your stand—silence in times of war is not acceptable; it is abandonment. If you do not take a stand today, in the hardest moments, then when will you? Nations are not measured by words in easy times, but by the stand of their people in times of war.

In the end, the battle is not only on the ground—it is also in the minds. Awareness is not a choice; it is a responsibility, and it is the first line of defense for our nations.

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)