IRAN has snubbed the region’s most influential security conference, despite invitations from organisers.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) said invitations for Iranian officials to attend the Manama Dialogue had been sent out.

“We cannot force as every country has its sovereign decision,” said IISS Senior Fellow for Regional Security Emile Hokayem.

“It was high on our agenda to invite Iranian officials to join us this year as their voice is very important. We hope they join us for the talks next year.”

The list of Iranian officials invited by the Bahrain government and the IISS include Dr Seyed Mohammad Kazem Sajjadpour, former ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative for the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations, and Dr Bijan Khajehpour, Atieh International managing and founding partner.