National Guard (Bahrain)

The National Guard of Bahrain (الحرس الوطني) is separate military force from the Bahrain Defence Force. The National Guard is charged with internal security and assisting the Bahrain Defence Force in defending against external threats. It was established in 1997, through a royal decree by then Emir Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

The National Guard is currently commanded by General Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa, brother of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. It consists of about 3,800 personnel.

The National Guard was involved in the government's response to the 2011 Bahraini uprising. State media described the operation as having been carried out "with high standards of competence and professionalism".