U.S. warns of risks in Bahrain

WASHINGTON, April 13 (UPI) -- People traveling in or to Bahrain face increased scrutiny from authorities and some U.S. citizens can't enter the country, the U.S. State Department said.

The minority Sunni leadership in Bahrain is facing an international backlash over the heavy hand used to quell an uprising from the country's Shiite majority.

The State Department in a travel warning said its embassy in Bahrain remains open, but notes that it called for the voluntary departure of non-essential staff members in March. The country's main airport is still open and considered safe, but U.S. citizens are warned of ongoing civil unrest.

"All travelers to Bahrain face increased scrutiny from Bahraini authorities, and the government of Bahrain has refused to allow some U.S. citizens permission to enter Bahrain," the warning read.

Most demonstrations in Bahrain aren't directed at U.S. interests as Bahrain is considered a key strategic ally in the region. Nevertheless, the State Department said embassy officials are restricted from traveling at night and all U.S. citizens are advised to remain vigilant.

"Even though daily routines are returning to normal, there remains the possibility that spontaneous violence may erupt, or that travel in and around Bahrain could become dangerous with little notice," the warning stated.