MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) — Bahraini security forces have fired tear gas against bands of anti-government protesters across the tense Gulf island kingdom.
Small-scale clashes have become a near nightly event in Bahrain between police and mostly Shiite demonstrators demanding greater rights. The street skirmishes Thursday appeared bigger and more widespread after calls on social media for stronger protest gatherings.

An Associated Press journalist saw forces fire tear gas in the capital Manama and in Shiite-dominated suburbs to try to disperse protesters. There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Bahrain's majority Shiites began protests in February inspired by other Arab uprisings. Shiites claim widespread discrimination at the hands of Sunni rulers.