It seems clear that in order for the protesters to win (or even survive) the coming confrontation some significant elements of the armed forces will need to switch allegiance - or at the very least stand down.

From what I've read it is unthinkable that the militias will do so, and highly unlikely that the Revolutionary Guards will do so.

But I have heard virtually nothing about the army or the police forces. Does anyone know what these force's politics/allegiances are? Or the chances that they will refuse to harm their neighbors?