Armed forces from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are taking part in a joint military exercise in Bahrain, Al Jazeera reports citing the country’s military.

Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Dhiab bin Saqr al-Nuaimi says the “Bahrain Shield” exercise running from July 28-30 aims to raise combat readiness, improve operational planning and strengthen coordination among Gulf forces.

He adds that the participation of GCC armed forces “embodies the features of a robust joint Gulf military force capable of confronting various challenges”.

The drills, he notes, are “a solid strategic foundation for military solidarity and a firm pillar for standing united against any treacherous attacks”.

Al-Nuaimi says recent violence in the region has reinforced the need for joint defence.

“The treacherous attacks witnessed in the region dictate that we develop joint military defence cooperation,” he adds.