Irish Community in Kuwait and Bahrain Navigates Rising Regional Tensions
As instability escalates in the Middle East, Irish citizens living and working in Kuwait and Bahrain are experiencing firsthand the anxieties and disruptions caused by the conflict. Jake McAllister, principal of an international school in Kuwait and originally from Portstewart, Derry, described a “pretty sleepless night” as sirens signaled potential missile strikes. He’s lived in Kuwait since 2018 and, until recently, had never felt unsafe.
Life Under Air Raid Sirens
McAllister, along with his wife Marlene and eight-month-vintage daughter Elena, recently returned from a mid-term break in Egypt just before the escalation. He recounted hearing a “really loud explosion” and the immediate flurry of questions on WhatsApp groups as residents sought information. While the primary experience has been the sound of explosions and sirens, he and others have witnessed debris falling from the sky. Despite the tension, McAllister noted a strong sense of community spirit, with people checking on each other.
Schools in Kuwait have swiftly transitioned to online learning to minimize disruption to students’ education. McAllister stated it was “early days” regarding potential evacuation, expressing hope that the situation would stabilize.
A Cautious Calm in Bahrain
Dr. Paul O’Farrell, a lecturer in biochemistry in Bahrain who has lived there for twenty years, reports a sense of relative safety, though with a degree of caution. He explained that noises heard are often attributed to air defense systems intercepting potential threats. While not planning an immediate departure, Dr. O’Farrell and his family are making contingency plans for evacuation should it become necessary.
His 17-year-old daughter is now attending school remotely, and his university has also moved to online lectures. “We’re keeping our eyes open and adjusting to the vagaries of what’s happening at the moment,” he said.
The Broader Context: Government Response and Regional Instability
The Irish government is currently considering contingency plans for the approximately 22,000 Irish citizens in the Middle East, advising them to shelter in place. The US Department of State has urged American citizens to immediately depart more than a dozen countries in the region amid escalating tensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Irish citizens being evacuated from Kuwait and Bahrain?
A: As of March 3, 2026, the Irish government is advising citizens to shelter in place and is considering contingency plans, but a full-scale evacuation has not been announced.
Q: What is the situation like for schools in Kuwait?
A: Schools have largely switched to online learning to ensure students can continue their education safely.
Q: Is there a heightened sense of fear among the Irish community?
A: While there is apprehension, reports indicate a strong sense of community support and resilience.
Q: What is the US government advising its citizens to do?
A: The US Department of State is urging American citizens to immediately depart more than a dozen countries in the Middle East.
Did you grasp? The air defense systems are reportedly intercepting many of the incoming threats, minimizing direct impact in areas where Irish citizens reside.
Pro Tip: If you are an Irish citizen in the Middle East, register with the Department of Foreign Affairs to receive updates and assistance.
Stay informed about the evolving situation in the Middle East. For further updates, visit RTÉ’s Middle East News page.
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. What are your concerns regarding the situation in the Middle East?
