“The Iranian leader’s comments are unacceptable interference and it is a clear infringement on the sovereignty and independence of the Kingdom of Bahrain”, al-Azhar said in a statement Thursday, announcing its support to the neighboring Gulf State. The Kingdom of Bahrain calls on Iran to cease all such provocative acts and choose instead to contribute positively and constructively to all efforts that strengthen regional security and stability, including confronting all forms of terrorism and violent extremism.

On July 23, Bahraini Interior Minister Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa had accused Iran of interfering in the Arab country’s domestic affairs and disrespecting the values of neighborly relations.

Bahrain recalled its ambassador to Tehran for consultations on Saturday after what it said were repeated hostile statements made by the officials of the regime in Tehran, and foiled a bid to smuggle in high-grade explosives and arms in the same day, Reuters reported.

Sunni Muslim-ruled Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, often accuses Iran, a Shi’ite Muslim theocracy, of seeking to subvert Bahrain.

The ministry said the two suspects wanted to dispose of the materials they received off the Bahraini coast, including 43.8 kg of the powerful explosive C4, eight automatic assault rifles (Kalashnikov), 32 Kalashnikov magazines, ammunition and detonators.