US endorses Bahraini tyranny

"The U.S. is stepping up its support for Bahrain's beleaguered ruling family, throwing a lifeline to a key ally and signaling Washington's willingness to vary its approach depending on its strategic interests and the willingness of autocratic leaders to respond to popular protests.  After backing opposition calls for the removal of President Hosni Mubarak in Egypt and Col. Moammar Gadhafi in Libya, President Barack Obama has tentatively embraced efforts by King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa of Bahrain to ease tensions and advance reform, despite an initial wave of violence against protesters.  Mr. Obama and other officials, in statements this week, welcomed the ruling family's outreach efforts and the king's decisions to reshuffle his cabinet, pull back his forces and free political prisoners. Mr. Obama said the dialogue was an "opportunity for meaningful reform."" (thanks Ali)