Bahrain protesters step up pressure on rulers

MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) — Protesters demanding sweeping political reforms from Bahrain’s rulers held their ground today in an Egypt-style occupation of the capital’s landmark square, staging a third day of demonstrations that have brought unprecedented pressure in one of Washington’s most strategic allies in the Gulf. Security forces have pulled back sharply — apparently on orders to ease tensions — after clashes that left at least two people dead and dozens injured. Police helicopters, however, flew low over a major funeral procession for one of those killed in which mourners called him a “martyr” and pledged more protests in the island nation — home to the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet.