Bahrain refuses to join Iran-Gulf Hormuz meeting, demands toll-free passage

Bahrain said it would not join any group meeting that includes Iran before diplomatic relations are restored, citing Iranian attacks and the strike on Saudi Arabia's pipeline, and said any Hormuz arrangement must guarantee transit 'without discrimination, fees, or permits.' Pezeshkian had said Gulf ministers would meet in Muscat on Monday to sign off on an Iran-Oman shipping route.

Why this matters. Bahrain's refusal exposed the Gulf split over Iran's plan to formalise its control of the strait.