Tehran: Iran’s army has said it will protect public property and key infrastructure as the government moves to contain growing protests across the country, sparked by economic hardship and rising prices.
In a statement carried by state media on Friday, the army said it stood ready to safeguard national assets and maintain order. The message came as demonstrations continued in several cities, with protesters expressing anger over inflation, unemployment and what they describe as years of economic mismanagement.
The unrest began in late December after sharp increases in the cost of basic goods. What started as protests over living conditions has since widened, with some demonstrators calling for broader political change. Videos shared on social media before internet restrictions showed crowds chanting slogans against the ruling establishment.
The government has responded with a heavy security presence. Authorities have limited internet access nationwide, a move that rights groups say is aimed at preventing the spread of images and information from the streets. State media has blamed the violence on hostile foreign actors and said security personnel have also been killed during the unrest.
Human rights organizations report that dozens of people have died since the protests began, with thousands more detained. Officials have not released detailed figures but have warned that those involved in vandalism or attacks on public buildings will face severe punishment.
Iran’s judiciary has said cases linked to the unrest will be handled quickly. Senior officials have repeated that peaceful protest is allowed under the law but said acts of violence will not be tolerated.
International attention has grown in recent days. Exiled opposition figures have urged Iranians to continue protesting, while some foreign leaders have called on Tehran to avoid the use of excessive force.
Despite the army’s pledge to protect public property, the situation remains tense. With the economy under strain and public anger still high, there are few signs that the unrest will ease in the near term.