Bahrain Opposition Rejects Concessions

With return of Shiite leader Hassan Mushaima to Gulf country Sunday, anti-al-Khalifa forces make clear gov't reshuffle does not meet demands for change.

Obama: "The United States supports the national dialogue initiative led by Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad al-Khalifa."

Statement by the President on Bahrain

I welcome the announcement by King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa about making important changes to the cabinet and restating his commitment to reform. The United States supports the national dialogue initiative led by Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad al-Khalifa, and encourages a process that is meaningful, inclusive, non sectarian, and responsive to the people of Bahrain. The dialogue offers an opportunity for meaningful reform and for all Bahrainis to forge a more just future together. As a long standing partner of Bahrain, the United States continues to believe that Bahrain's stability will be enhanced by respecting the universal rights of the people of Bahrain and reforms that meet the aspirations of all Bahrainis.

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