Naval Support Operations Bahrain — Security signs at the gates of this important U.S. naval base in the Middle East show how rising tensions in the region are impacting the 7,600 soldiers and 1,200 family members stationed here. is reflected.
The sign indicates “Compulsory Protective Conditions Charlie”, which means increased measures due to fear of terrorism or targeting.
Multiple U.S. Navy officials said the security posture was changed after the Israel-Hamas war began on Oct. 7, but not due to a specific threat.
The base, located in densely populated Bahrain, has not been targeted by various Iranian-backed militant groups that have attacked U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria, mostly in remote areas. At least 66 attacks have occurred since the war began, injuring 62 U.S. service members.
However, the Navy’s security measures in Bahrain come with restrictions on where soldiers and their families can eat, gather and have fun. As daily life changes and places to relax decrease, base officials say there is a growing demand for counseling and services to help people cope with added stress and the fear of increased conflict.
“We’re getting a lot of questions. People are asking what’s going on,” said Clara Schuler, director of the Fleet and Family Support Center. “Essentially, I’m seeing more and more people saying, ‘I’m stressed because I can’t cope with the unknown.'”
Navy Capt. Rev. Leroy Young said attendance at religious services has improved. Muslim services have become so popular in recent weeks that another location may be needed soon, and Latter-day Saint services are now also offered.
“We are adjusting to the new normal that is here,” Young said.
There have been no protests near the Bahrain base, which is tightly controlled by the ruling family. But Americans are aware of the anger many in the Arab world feel about U.S. policies since October 7, when Hamas tortured and killed 1,200 people in Israel. Washington has supported Israel amid attacks in Gaza that have left thousands dead.
Base spokesman Lt. Brian Blair said troops and their families are advised to make “wise decisions” and avoid unnecessary travel.
Prime Minister Blair said brunch at local cafes, a staple of base life in Bahrain, had been replaced by dinner parties, as restaurant dining was currently not allowed.
Other changes include the homecoming dance, usually held at a hotel in Manama, being held at the base school. Some students were unable to participate in intramural sports off-base, and tours at the city’s markets were canceled.
Blair said troops and families can shop for essentials and get haircuts in town. And personnel continue to live off-base and commute to work daily.
Meanwhile, small numbers of off-duty sailors still roam American Alley, a strip of fast-food restaurants and hotels adjacent to the base.
Families said they were adapting to the restrictions by keeping their children on base.
Garretson and Nancy Taylor took their two children, Olinley, 9, and Grant, 7, to a cookout hosted by Morale, Welfare and Recreation last week. My family now goes to see movies at the Naval Theater instead of Manama.
Garretson Taylor, a government civilian who works on ship maintenance, is wary of the current tensions because he lived in Bahrain during 2020, when the US and Iran clashed after the US assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. He said no.
Orinley Taylor said she is familiar with the Israel-Hamas war. Despite this, she said her father tries to protect her children from the stress.
“There’s no news at home,” he said.