Bahrain

CAIRO -- Bahrain sentenced eight activists to life in prison Wednesday in the latest crackdown on a 5-month-old rebellion by the island monarchy, which has been criticized by international human-rights groups for mass arrests, torture and shooting protesters.

The verdicts follow the lifting of martial law but indicate the ruling Sunni-Muslim family will not tolerate unrest among a majority Shiite population demanding an end to discrimination. Several of the activists, such as Abdulhadi Alkhawaja, are respected dissidents, and their sentences are likely to spur fresh protests.

 MANAMA, Bahrain  -- Soldiers and riot police expelled hundreds of protesters from a landmark square in Bahrain’s capital on Wednesday, using tear gas and armored vehicles to try to subdue the growing movement challenging the 200-year-old monarchy. At least five people were killed as clashes flared across the kingdom, according to witnesses and officials.

MANAMA, Bahrain -- Bahrain's king ordered the release of some political prisoners Tuesday, conceding to another opposition demand as the embattled monarchy tries to engage protesters in talks aimed at ending an uprising that has entered its second week.

The king's decree -- which covers several Shiite activists accused of plotting against the state -- adds to the brinksmanship on both sides that has included a massive pro-government rally Monday, an opposition march in response and the planned return of a prominent opposition figure from exile.