Bahrain Mirror (Exclusive): The US State Department said that "The US Government is deeply concerned by the June 16 conviction and sentencing by a Bahraini court of Sheikh Ali Salman, the Secretary General of Al-Wefaq."

In a statement released on Tuesday, June 16, 2015, the department spokesperson, John Kirby said: "As we have consistently said, opposition parties that peacefully voice criticism of the government play a vital role in inclusive, pluralistic states and societies."

"Creating an atmosphere in which a full range of political opinions can be peacefully expressed is essential in Bahrain, across the Middle East, and globally. As we pointed out in our December 31 statement, we are also concerned that this action (arresting Sheikh Ali Salman) has the potential to inflame tensions," the statement further read.

The US State Department concluded its statement by saying: "The United States believes that no one, anywhere, should be prosecuted or imprisoned for engaging in peaceful expression or assembly. Any charges against Ali Salman that were brought on that basis should be dropped. We also strongly urge the Government of Bahrain to abide by its commitment to the protection of freedom of expression."

The Arabic Issue