The upsurge in violence against Bahraini protestors within 24 hours of the departure of US Defense Secretary Robert Gates is indicative of the green light given by Washington to this bloody crackdown.

IHRC is delighted to hear about the imminent release of Khairat Al-Shater, Deputy Chairman of the Muslim Brotherhood, after serving 4 years of a 7 year sentence. His release was authorised by the Supreme Council of Armed Forces this afternoon.

PRESS RELEASE: Libya – US / UK / European interference not welcomed by protestors
IHRC opposes military intervention in Libya by ‘West’

Mubarak regime prisoners given preferential treatment, while political prisoners languish under further restrictions.

20.35GMT, for immediate release.  IHRC has received reports from Benghazi that ongoing violence against protestors by the regime has resulted in over 200 deaths.

The violence perpetrated so easily on protestors staging a sit in.  However crucial aspects of the background to this situation have not been understood. 

IHRC is deeply concerned over the reporting of such news agencies as the BBC, CNN and Fox News.