Kuwaitis united in adversity, prosperity

KUWAIT CITY, April 18: Repercussions of the war that erupted on Feb 28 between the United States of America and Israel on one side and Iran on the other side continue to cast a shadow over Kuwait, other Gulf Arab states and the region in general despite the ceasefire. This war revealed the extent of solidarity among the Kuwaiti people, who proved their patriotism, loyalty to their political leadership, and unwavering support for their Army.

The newspaper interviewed prominent figures who unveiled the true character of the Kuwaiti people, a character that shines in times of crises. They affirmed that Kuwait faced various challenges, which revealed the depth of its citizens’ loyalty to the homeland and its wise leadership. They pointed out that the repercussions of the recent war brought to mind the scenes of unity during the brutal Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990, emphasizing that this national spirit is still present and deeply rooted in the Kuwaiti conscience. They praised the efforts of the protectors of the nation -- members of the Kuwait Army and police -- in safeguarding lives and maintaining security for both the citizens and residents, stressing that the sacrifices of the martyrs are immortal, recorded in history in letters of gold.

Head of the Al-Hawajer tribe Sheikh Mohammad bin Shabaan asserted that the Kuwaiti people embody the values of authenticity and unity, proving their unity with their nation and political leadership in every crisis. He cited the Iraqi invasion, when Kuwaitis united, formed resistance committees, and ensured the provision of necessities. He added that the recent crisis reaffirmed this approach, as Kuwaitis showed their loyalty and support for the wise leadership, represented by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, while complying with official directives. He pointed out that the sacrifices of the sons of Kuwait throughout various periods reflect their true character, stressing that the cohesion of the home front is the strongest weapon of the nation in overcoming challenges. Attorney Faisal Al-Manna’ Al-Shamri stated that the Kuwaiti people’s love for their homeland is not surprising, as the hardships the country endured proved the resilience and determination of its citizens.

“They emerge during times of crises and challenges to form the first line of defense, offering sacrifices to protect Kuwait and its borders, not allowing an inch of its soil to be encroached upon by treacherous aggressors, whether distant or nearby,” he added. He pointed out that this kind of unity is not a recent phenomenon, as it is a deeply rooted principle manifested in the unwavering support of the people for their legitimate leadership and their loyalty to the Al-Sabah Family, the family of benevolence, represented by His Highness the Amir and His Highness the Crown Prince. “They stand united in times of prosperity and adversity. The Kuwaiti people are inherently loyal and honest – characteristics that are demonstrated in times of crises,” he stressed. He pointed out that the history of Kuwait is replete with acts of heroism and sacrifice, a constant affirmation of the sentiment, “We are all for Kuwait and Kuwait is for us.”

Economic advisor Abdullah Al-Gharib stressed that the Kuwaiti people, when facing difficult challenges, stand united to defend their homeland. He said this unity is a deeply rooted legacy passed from the first generation to the next generations. He explained that the crises Kuwait has experienced, most recently the repercussions of the war between the United States and Israel against Iran, proved the strong bond between the members of society, up to the point that this unity has become the secret to Kuwait’s strength in facing challenges. He added that the protectors of the nation from the Army and police efficiently played their role in defending the country as they faced dangers, not to mention their constant readiness and commitment to maintain national security and guarantee the safety of everyone living on this land. Journalist Hamad Al-Marri stated that the Kuwaiti people, despite their political differences, remain united in times of hardship, standing shoulder to shoulder behind the political leadership, renewing their loyalty and commitment to defend the homeland. Al-Marri recalled the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, which proved the unity of Kuwaitis from all walks of life.

“They stood together against the occupier, undeterred by attempts at exploitation or division. This period embodied the authenticity of their national stance and solidified their sense of belonging,” he asserted. He added that the recent crisis reaffirmed this unity, as Kuwaitis stood shoulder to shoulder in facing challenges, thwarting attempts to sow doubt or discord, and remaining steadfast in their national unity to defend their country. Economist and media expert Faisal Daham Al-Harbi said the major crises always reveal the depth of the Kuwaiti people’s connection to their homeland. He pointed out that adversity sheds differences and highlights the solidarity between the leadership and the people. He stated that recent events showed the high level of unity, particularly the dedication of the Kuwait Army and Kuwait National Guard personnel in performing their duty and making sacrifices in defense of the homeland. “This was evident in the widespread public display of solidarity. This unity shows the true character of the Kuwaiti people and deserves recognition,” he concluded.

By Najeh Bilal Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff