State prosecutors in Bahrain are opening their case against 23 Shia Muslim activists accused of plotting to overthrow Sunni rulers in the tiny Gulf nation.
The trial beginning today in Bahrain's capital Manama is a potential flashpoint after more than two months of harsh crackdowns against majority Shia in this strategic nation that hosts the US 5th Fleet.
Sunni authorities fear Shia seek to challenge their power and worry about possible links to Iran. Shias say they only seek a greater political voice and are fighting discrimination.
In Bahrain's parliamentary elections last week, Shias held onto their seats but are not expected to gain enough allies for a majority. The second round of voting is this Saturday.
AP