The U.S.-backed monarchy in Bahrain has released at least 50 political prisoners following over a week of protests. The move came as the Bahraini capital of Manama saw its largest pro-democracy rally to date, with tens of thousands packing the central Pearl Roundabout. After a deadly crackdown last week, a Bahraini police officer was among those to join the protest.

Abu Noah: “We decided that our job is to protect the people and not to beat them up. The weapons that have been used against the people are weapons of shame. The weapons should be used to protect the people and not be used against them. That is why we have decided to be with the people.”