State forces in Bahrain have cracked down on pro-democracy rallies challenging the U.S.-backed monarchy. On Wednesday, Bahrani police fired tear gas and birdshot at a number of protests in Shiite villages around the capital, Manama. Bahraini opposition activists say more than 60 rallies were organized across the country. The U.S. embassy closed down for the day after activists planned to rally outside. The Bahraini monarchy is a key U.S. government ally, hosting the Navy’s Fifth Fleet.