.jpg)
The tiny monarchy of Bahrain is struggling to hold on during a time of unrest and constant regional tensions. Thankfully, they've got some help.
Bahrain is home to America's 5th Fleet, which extends a decisive presence through the region.
Last fall I was invited to take part in international mine clearing exercises in the Persian Gulf.
It was an opportunity to step inside a place full of contradictions, from luxurious developments built with oil money — to the squalor of immigrant workers who built them — to cordoned-off military zones.
Bahrain looks calm, tranquil and hot at just after 5 a.m.
Ruled by Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, this small island monarchy is linked by bridge to Saudi Arabia (and in a few years to Qatar).
Bahrain has been vital to the U.S. presence in the region since World War II and is host to the U.S. 5th Fleet.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider
Please follow Military & Defense on Twitter and Facebook.