The crown prince of Bahrain, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, has urged churches across the country to stay open, despite Iranian attacks on the nation.

Bahrain has become a frontline in war, with Iranian missiles and drone strikes targeting the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama.

The prince’s comments came after he visited the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia in Awali to express his support for the Catholic community.

Bishop Aldo Berardi, O.SS.T., the vicar apostolic of Northern Arabia, said: “The crown prince has asked to leave churches open for the spiritual support of the faithful.”

Meanwhile, Agenzia Fides, the news agency of the Pontifical Mission Societies, reported that Christian religious leaders have “expressed great appreciation for the Kingdom’s continued support, under the leadership of His Majesty”.

It added: “They also commended the safe and secure environment provided and protected by the kingdom, which encourages people to practice their faith freely.”

The nation of 1.6 million, located in the Persian Gulf, has a 12% Christian population.

Pope Francis made an apostolic journey to Bahrain in 2022.