Thousands of Bahrainis have been demonstrating in the capital Manama demanding a regime change in the Gulf kingdom after two protesters were killed in clashes with police.
Washington expressed concern at the killings and urged all sides to exercise restraint.
The Shiite opposition party says the demonstrators want a new constitution and a peaceful transfer of power.
Meanwhile Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone has voiced disquiet about next month's Grand Prix on the island, which opens the new Formula One season.