Political Unrest Grows in the Middle East

Tunisia first lit the flame of civilian discontent in North Africa, then Egypt exploded by successfully overthrowing their leader last Friday. Throughout the last month, huge anti-government protests have spread throughout the region, first in Algeria and Jordan, and now in Iran, Yemen, and Bahrain. The recent cries of protesters parallel those heard in Tunisia and Egypt, calling for democratic ruling and the end of elitist, authoritarian regimes.

While the anti-government protesters have generally been peaceful, police and pro-regime factions are reacting with extreme violence. In Bahrain, two protesters have been shot dead by the police, while plainclothes police hidden among civilian loyalist carry electric tasers and batons, in the streets of Sanaa, Yemen. Iranian Political leaders are calling for opposition leaders to be handed the death penalty, and two have already died. Many others have been wounded while assembling to support the recent activity in Tunisia and Egypt. Most protests show no signs of stopping, though frequent arrests and teargas have slowed them down.

Both President Obama and Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton have voiced support for peaceful protesters and called for peace between various government responses and those who fill the streets.

Read more here:

http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/02/20112158387191255.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/16/world/middleeast/16bahrain.html?hp