Bahrain opposition fears protest crackdowns

Manama: Opposition groups in Bahrain are appealing for authorities to call off crackdown warnings over plans for a major anti-government rally next month.

Protest factions in the Gulf nation have called for large demonstrations August 14 inspired by the toppling of Egypt’s President Mohammad Mursi.

Bahrain has been wracked by 29 months of near nonstop unrest as the opposition seeks a greater political voice in the kingdom.

Authorities have vowed a harsh response to next month’s planned demonstrations, apparently fearing it could sharply escalate the ongoing street clashes.