Counter-revolution: 250 missing in Bahrain
\n22 April 2011<\/p>\n
In a span of one month, King Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain unleashed a merciless repression campaign against his subjects.<\/p>\n
More than 80 % of the adult population participated in this spring\u2019s peaceful protest movement, demanding the democratization of the monarchy.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Washington is concerned that the nationalist awakening will call into question the concession contract for Juffair, a port which is home to the fifth US fleet and the naval command of CentCom.
\n\u2022 Paris is afraid that a revolution would jeopardize the recent defense agreements signed with the kingdom.
\n\u2022 London considers that any loss of power suffered by the monarch would spell a loss of its influence over this former colony which has had a semblance of independence only since 1971.
\n\u2022 Riyad fears that any advancement toward democracy or social progress in neighboring Bahrain might ignite a similar movement in Saudi Arabia.<\/p>\n
That is why, on March 13th, the King received US Defense Secretary Robert Gates and, under his oversight, called for the intervention of Saudi troops.<\/p>\n
Since they entered the territory, 25 mosques were completely destroyed (including the historic mosque of Amir Mohammad), and 253 others were damaged. …more<\/a><\/p>\n