Bahrain: From Persian Gulf Outpost to Independent Isle

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Iran reiterated its claims, even designating Bahrain as its "14th province" in 1957 and allocating two parliamentary seats to it, despite not having effective administrative control. This was a clear demonstration of Iran's persistent assertion of sovereignty, viewing Bahrain as a historical and geographical extension of its mainland. The British, however, had progressively recognized the Al Khalifa's sovereignty through various treaties, effectively transforming Bahrain into a British protectorate. This created a persistent diplomatic tension between Iran and Britain over Bahrain's status.