Bahrain slaps healthcare workers with criminal charges

Bahrain is facing international criticism for its response to Shiite demonstrations Nearly 50 healthcare workers in Bahrain were charged in connection to treating anti-government protesters, a special court ruled Monday.  A group of 23 doctors and 24 nurses were charged by a special court Monday

, al-Jazeera reports. They've been in custody since March when the minority Sunni monarchy declared a state of emergency in response to an uprising by the country's Shiite majority.

The broadcaster didn't outline the specific charges. U.N. officials criticized Bahraini forces for storming hospitals in Manama.

Bahrain is facing international criticism for its response to ongoing Shiite demonstrations. The country is host to the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet. In March, the Sunni leaders called for military support from its Gulf neighbors in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Manama lifted the state of emergency last week though clashes erupted following a Friday funeral procession. Bahraini authorities warned of "consequences" if there was additional unrest and scuffles were reported during the weekend.

The Arab broadcaster said it was prevented from covering some of the unrest because of security checkpoints set up around Shiite population centers.