Bahrain’s King Embraces Jews, Hates Israel Less

The King of Bahrain continues to make strides to embrace and protect the small Jewish community left in the Muslim country. The 36 Jews, all located in capital city Manama, proudly display their Jewish names on storefronts. The Jewish cemetery is kept clean. Even the American Jewish Committee has awarded the King with a peace award.

The synagogue, which is out of use, is vandalized with the phrase “Death to Israel.”

Even in the most peaceful and embracing communities, the Arab world hates Israel. The King lifted an embargo on companies that do business with Israel, but the nation does not have diplomatic ties with the Jewish state.

I think it is great that the King of Bahrain has made steps to keep the Jewish community safe in Manama. I think it is great that the small community still exists in the small country. However, the King has made a symbolic step and no real progress. Yes, it is great. No, it is not real enough.

The only way for Bahrain to show that it is truly not anti-Semitic is to open up an embassy in Jerusalem, or Tel Aviv if they are stubborn about it. Diplomacy is going to be proof of progress. Until then, it is just a show.