The rule of the king, Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa, is generally stable, but tensions will persist between the Sunni-dominated political elite and the generally less well-off Shia majority. The main opposition group, the Shia-based, Islamist-leaning al-Wefaq National Islamic Society, is the largest party in parliament, but as parliament's powers are heavily circumscribed, its influence is limited. Official policy is likely to focus on improving economic conditions, facilitated by high oil prices, rather than on the constitutional reforms that the opposition seek. Frequent street protests are likely to continue. Internationally, the US, the UK and Saudi Arabia will remain Bahrain's key allies. Although relations with Iran will remain publicly cordial, the government will continue to be concerned about the Iranian nuclear programme and about the extent of Iran's influence over Bahrain's Shia-led opposition groups. Rising public spending will be facilitated by high oil prices, which will keep export earnings and government revenue strong despite declining oil output. Buoyed by the regional oil boom, real GDP growth will average 6.1% in 2008-09, reflecting both the strength of oil prices and robust regional demand for Bahrain's financial services.