From Territorial Dispute to Diplomatic Partnership

The relationship between Sheikh Isa and the Shah was characterized by mutual respect. Sheikh Isa was known for his gentle diplomacy, which contrasted with the Shah’s often grand and imposing personality. However, the Shah appreciated the Sheikh’s pragmatism. The 1975 visit was more than just a political meeting; it was a personal endorsement of the Al Khalifa family's right to rule by the most powerful man in the region.