Digital Journal
"Bahrain anti-government protests continue despite dialogue offer"
written by: Leo Reyes
Published: March 14, 2011 Accessed: 20 January 2013
Click here to access article
Published: March 14, 2011 Accessed: 20 January 2013
Click here to access article
Brief Summary of the Article:
Bahrain's anti-government protesters have been clashing with government security forces near Peal Square. The protesters (Shiite majority) have been calling for equality with Sunnis and an elected government. Security forces have been shooting tear gas and rubber bullets in an attempt to break up protests. In an effort to calm anti-government forces Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad al-Khalifa has promised protesters sweeping national dialogue. These clashes are intensifying fears that Bahrains political crisis could evolve into conflict between ruling majority Sunnis and Shiites. Bahrain is important to the U.S. because a major U.S. naval force is stationed there as a "watchdog in the region", as well as its progressive banking in the Middle East.
Your Thoughts, Comments, and/or Reaction:
Through the reading and analyzing of this article it is evident that the government of Bahrain is fearful of conflicts like in other Arab nations and states. These protests and the sometimes violent government securiy force retaliations are needed to stop possible roits, however the effects of these government retaliations does not necessarily help the over all situation. Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad al-Khalifa move to withdrawal all the military troops from the street was a smart move to try and called to climaxing situation.
Article's Relation to "Politics"
This article related to politics in that it reveals to tention of some of the people for a new government and better representation within that government. Through this article one can see that the anti-government members and fed up with the government and the government is doing its best to calm tentions. As well this article reveals the relations that the U.S. has with Bahrain and the importance that the government remains so this relationship may continue.