A senior opposition leader says he would support demands to oust Bahrain's monarchy if that becomes the overwhelming sentiment of protesters.

The statement by Hassan Mushaima to The Associated Press appears to open the door for a more hard-line approach by key opposition factions. It also could further complicate appeals by Bahrain's rulers to hold negotiations to ease the three-week-old unrest.

Mushaima says he would fall behind calls to topple the 200-year-old Sunni Muslim dynasty if that becomes the main cry from the Shiite-led protesters. Bahrain's majority Shiites have long complained of discrimination and other abuses.

Mushaima made the comments before a planned news conference later Tuesday.