MANAMA, (AP) — Bahrain’s king says the Gulf nation has made progress with political reforms drawn up in response to a yearlong uprising by the country’s Shiite majority, which is calling for more rights and an elected government.

King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa says security forces and the judicial system have been improved after international investigators criticized them in a report on the unrest.

At least 45 people have been killed during months of anti-government demonstrations and harsh crackdowns. Hundreds of opposition supporters have been detained and tried in a special court, including medics, who treated injured protesters.

The king said Tuesday the reforms will lead to reconciliation between Shiites and a Sunnis minority that rules the strategic island that is home to the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet.