Mysterious onset of reflexive gagging hits Bahraini Opposition

Bahraini king: Egypt’s revolutions an inspiration to all Arabs
31/10/2011 – ALMASRY ALYOUM

Egyptian revolutions throughout history have been a source of inspiration to Arabs everywhere, and all have benefited from their positive examples, said Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa on Monday.

After meeting with Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, head of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), the king said that Egypt’s stability affects the entire region.

“We appreciate Egypt’s honorable positions, leadership and people, vis-a-vis Bahrain,” the king said.

Inspired by the revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt, Shia movements in Bahrain took to the streets in February to demand greater representation and access to jobs and benefits.

At least 30 were killed, hundreds wounded and more than 1000 arrested as a result, in a crackdown that enlisted the help of troops from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Although Shias are a majority in Bahrain, the Sunni Khalifa family rules the country. Saudi Arabia and the United States, two of Bahrain’s influential allies, view the Khalifa regime as a bulwark against the regional influence of Shia Iran.

Bahrain wishes to strengthen bilateral relations with Egypt, the king said, adding that he discussed with Tantawi means of economic, commercial, cultural, informational and military cooperation.
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