Amid raging protestsand internet shutdown, the Iranian army on Saturday, January 10 said it will continue to defend the «National Interest»<\/b>
\nAmid escalating public protests and internet shutdown, the Iranian army on Saturday, January 10, has vowed to defend its \u201cnational interest.\u201d
According to a report by Al Jazeera, the Iranian military accused Israel and \u201chostile terrorist groups\u201d of seeking to \u201cundermine the country\u2019s public security.\u201d
\u201cThe Army, under the command of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief (Ayatollah Khamenei), together with other armed forces, in addition to monitoring enemy movements in the region, will resolutely protect and safeguard national interests, the country\u2019s strategic infrastructure, and public property,\u201d it said in a statement.
The warning comes at a time when the country is witnessing massive protests due to rising cost of living and inflation. Iranians have been demanding an end to the theocratic government which has ruled the country since 1979.
Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi also called for intensified demonstrations as several citizens shouted slogans in support of the country\u2019s ousted monarchy in North Tehran.
On January 9, the government cut off internet access and telephone lines. According to a report by NetBlocks, an organisation that tracks cybersecurity and digital governance, the shutdown has now lasted more than 60 hours.
\u201cThe censorship measure presents a direct threat to the safety and well being of Iranians at a key moment for the country\u2019s future,\u201d it said.
Stay updated with our WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. For all the latest Middle East updates, download our app Android and iOS.<\/p>\n