http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/31/world/middleeast/bahrain-bans-all-protests-in-new-crackdown.html?hp&_r=0
Bahrain's Interior Minister announced on Monday that oppositional activists have abused the government's "tolerance for freedom of expression" and all rallies and protests will thereby be banned indefinitely. Legal actions will be taken towards any dissenters calling for action or gathering, said Bahrain's official news agency. Violent outbursts have occurred sporadically since tensions brought on by last year's Arab Spring have empowered the country's Shiite majority to seek more government representation in the Sunni monarchy. 50 people have died thus far over 21 months of protests which have intensified as of late following police presence at a funeral of a killed activist and the prosecution of medical workers aiding wounded activists. Bahraini authorities have been subject to international scrutiny over their use of tear gas and birdshot to silence protests.
Bahrain is one of the four remaining Islamic nations of the world with a Shiite population majority. Although the small Persian Gulf island is a Sunni monarchy, its population consists of 65% Shiite Muslims. Because of its geographic proximity to Iran (home to the world's largest Shiite population) the US is in an awkward position of supporting this oppressive regime. The US is no stranger to friendly relations with oppressive regimes, but the State Department should take note of the long term impact these popular uprisings are having on the region and realize that non-intervention may be a better ally to the Middle Eastern sphere of influence than a Bahrain ally with a short shelf life will be against an Iranian foe.
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