### Iran's Military Responds to Escalating Protests with a Pledge to Defend National Interests - Amid ongoing protests in Iran, the military has publicly committed to safeguarding national interests and public property. The unrest has been fueled by rising inflation and living costs, leading to widespread demonstrations across multiple cities. The Iranian military has accused external forces, particularly Israel and terrorist groups, of attempting to incite further unrest [https://www.thehawk.in/news/world/irans-military-pledges-to-defend-national-interests-amid-protests]. Reports indicate that the situation has escalated, with significant arrests and an internet blackout implemented to control the protests [https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/world/iran-army-vows-to-defend-national-interests-as-protests-escalate]. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Overview of the Protests**: Description of the protests' origins and current status. 2. **Military's Position**: Details on the military's commitment to national interests and public safety. 3. **Government Response**: Examination of the Iranian government's actions, including arrests and internet restrictions. 4. **International Reactions**: Insights into how foreign leaders, including former U.S. President Trump, have responded to the protests. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Protest Statistics**: - **Deaths**: 65 documented deaths, including 50 protesters and 15 security personnel [https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2026/01/10/irans-army-vows-to-protect-public-property-as-tehran-seeks-to-quell-growing-unrest]. - **Arrests**: Hundreds of individuals have been arrested amid the protests [https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/world/iran-army-vows-to-defend-national-interests-as-protests-escalate]. - **Internet Blackout**: A significant internet shutdown has been reported as a measure to control the protests [https://www.awazthevoice.in/world-news/iran-army-vows-to-defend-national-interests-as-protests-escalate-48140.html]. ### Summary of Findings 1. **Protests Driven by Economic Strain**: The protests in Iran are primarily driven by public discontent over inflation and living costs, leading to widespread unrest across the nation. 2. **Military's Commitment**: The Iranian military has pledged to defend national interests and public property, indicating a strong stance against the protests. 3. **Government's Repressive Measures**: The Iranian government has responded with arrests and an internet blackout, aiming to quell the protests and maintain order. 4. **International Support for Protesters**: Notable international figures, including Trump, have expressed support for the protesters, highlighting the global attention on the situation in Iran. In conclusion, the Iranian military's pledge to defend national interests amid escalating protests reflects a critical juncture in the nation's socio-political landscape, marked by significant unrest and governmental responses aimed at suppression [https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/26/01/49829588/iranian-army-pledges-defense-of-national-interests-in-face-of-ongoing-protests].