Middle East Protests: Facts About Bahrain (PHOTOS)

Middle East Protests: Facts About Bahrain (PHOTOS): "Witnesses say Bahrain security forces have opened fire on anti-government protesters as the violence in Manama continues as part of a bold attempt to copy Egypt's uprising and to force high-level changes in its government.



Protesters are calling for the removal of King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifah and for Prime Minister Khalifah bin Sulman al-Khalifah to step down, and the majority Shiites are demanding more power from Sunni-led government.



The violence has now thrust the small island country - known for its oil and pearls - into the international spotlight for reasons other than its tourism and relatively liberal climate. Though Bahrain is tiny, it is home to the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet and, like Saudi Arabia, is one of the key U.S. allies in the Gulf region.



View facts about Bahrain here:

Read more: Egypt, Bahrain Opposition, Anti-Mubarak Protests, Bahrain Protests, Middle East Protests, Middle East, Slidepollajax, Hosni Mubarak, Sheikh Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifah, Egypt Protests, Khalifah Bin Sulman Al-Khalifah @Y:World, Bahrain Anti-Government Protests, Bahrain, Day of Rage, World News

"