Denouncing the attack in Libya

On Wednesday morning, I awoke with horror to the news that the U.S. Ambassador to Libya, Chris Stevens, was killed along with three others in an attack on the U.S. diplomatic mission in Benghazi. By all accounts, Ambassador Stevens exemplified the very best of what it means to be an Ambassador. He served his country exceptionally well and he will be greatly missed. The diplomatic community is like a big global family and we all feel the loss of Ambassador Stevens and his colleagues acutely.

Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned these attacks in the strongest possible terms. Bahrain has taken extra precautions to help secure the U.S. Embassy in Manama and we will continue to ensure the security of all diplomatic missions on our soil.

It is also important to speak out against the film that sparked these senseless acts. In a statement released last Thursday, the Ministry strongly denounced this film that defames the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh). Freedom of speech should be exercised responsibly and should respect the proud religious traditions of all the world’s citizens.

Incidents like these remind us of the fragility of life and the sacrifice of those who choose to serve their country. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during these difficult times.