進入英語學習論壇下載音頻 去聽寫專區一展身手

Soldiers and riot police expelled hundreds of protesters from a landmark square in Bahrain's capital on Wednesday, using tear gas and armored vehicles to try to subdue the growing movement calling for an end to the 200-year-old monarchy. At least six people were killed as clashes flared across the kingdom, according to witnesses and officials.

The unrest that began last month has shown signs of a sectarian showdown: The country's Sunni leaders are desperate to hold power, and majority Shiites are calling for an end to their dynasty. A Saudi-led force from Gulf allies, fearful for their own regimes and worried about Shiite Iran's growing influence, has grown to more than 1,000 soldiers.

Wednesday's full-scale assault launched at dawn in Pearl Square, the center of the uprising inspired by Arab revolts in Egypt and Tunisia. Hours later, security forces were picking through burned debris and other remains of the protest camp.

In another area of Bahrain, one witness described police in a village "hunting" Shiites in what could be part of a wider campaign of intimidation.

The king's announcement on Tuesday of a three-month emergency rule and the crackdown on Pearl Square sent a message that authorities will strike back with overwhelming force in the strategic island nation, which hosts the US Navy's 5th Fleet.

Security forces barred journalists and others from moving freely around Manama and other areas of the country a day after emergency rule was declared. A 4 am to 4 pm curfew was imposed in most of the country.

Witnesses said at least two protesters were killed when the square was stormed. Officials at Ibn Nafees Hospital said a third protester shot in the back later died from his wounds. The witnesses spoke on condition of anonymity because of fears of reprisals from authorities.

Bahrain state TV also reported that two policemen died when they were hit by a vehicle after protesters were driven out. The Interior Ministry said at least one other police officer was killed, but did not give the cause.

Questions:

1. How old is the monarchy in Bahrain?

2. How many soldiers are in the Saudi-led force?

3. What is the curfew in Manama?

Answers:

1. 200 years.

2. 1,000.

3. 4 am to 4 pm.

去聽寫專區一展身手

（中國日報網英語點津 Helen 編輯）

About the broadcaster:

Lee Hannon is Chief Editor at China Daily with 15-years experience in print and broadcast journalism. Born in England, Lee has traveled extensively around the world as a journalist including four years as a senior editor in Los Angeles. He now lives in Beijing and is happy to move to China and join the China Daily team.