Context
Shiite opposition of Bahrain demanded on Wednesday that the Saudi-backed armed forces helping to crush demonstrations should leave the country instantly. The demand highlighted the sectarian aspect of the anti-government campaign in this tiny island kingdom, where Shiite majority is protesting for more freedom and rights against a Sunni monarch that has been ruling Bahrain for almost two centuries. Around 1,500 soldiers from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other Gulf nations entered Bahrain a couple of weeks ago at the request of the Bahraini government.
