As the unrest intensifies, all eyes are on Bangladesh's army.

With a crackdown on Sunday, Bangladesh’s security forces are clashing with protesters. There is now anticipation about how the country’s military establishment will respond. The protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been in power for 15 years. The military has historically been involved in coups, but in recent years, it has taken a less overt role in public affairs. This shift has been attributed to Ms. Hasina, as she has appointed loyalists to leadership positions and given them access to lucrative contracts. The military’s involvement in a coup could result in criticism or isolation from the United Nations, which it heavily contributes to through peacekeeping missions. While the army was deployed to clear the protesters, reports suggest discomfort in the ranks over the crackdown. The army’s chief held a meeting to address concerns and reiterated their support for the people and the state. Analysts believe that if Ms. Hasina’s power becomes untenable, the army may not take over but could aid in a transition with a caretaker government.