The U.S.-backed monarchy in Bahrain is again blocking a visit by a top United Nations official seeking to assess conditions on the ground. Juan Méndez, the U.N.'s special rapporteur on torture, says the Bahraini regime has effectively canceled his planned trip to the country next month. The move comes a little over a year after the regime also blocked a visit by Méndez and Amnesty International. The move comes amidst a continued crackdown on opposition protesters, with demonstrations repressed and scores of dissidents held behind bars. In a statement, Méndez said the regime's latest postponement “could be perceived as if there is something to hide.” Bahrain is a key U.S. government ally, hosting the Navy’s Fifth Fleet.