PROTESTERS IN BAHRAIN REFUSE TO BACK DOWN

Protesters difficult sweeping political reforms from Bahrain's rulers held their ground Wednesday in an Egypt-style profession of the capital's landmark square, staging a third day of demonstrations that have brought unparalleled pressure in one of Washington's most strategic associates 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 memorial service procession for one of the victims in which mourners called him a "willing victim" and pledged more protests in the desert island nation - home to the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet.

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