Iran Ready for War but Keeps Door Open for US Talks Amid Nationwide Protests

Iran Ready for War but Keeps Door Open for US Talks Amid Nationwide Protests

Iranian officials have declared that the country is prepared for war but remains open to diplomatic dialogue with the United States, as President Donald Trump continues to warn of possible US intervention amid a violent crackdown on widespread anti-government protests.

Speaking to foreign ambassadors in Tehran on January 12, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the country is “not looking for war” but is ready if necessary, according to multiple media reports. His remarks followed Trump’s announcement that the US is weighing military options against Iran.

The protests, now in their third week, erupted in late December after soaring prices and the collapse of the Iranian rial sparked nationwide demonstrations. Human rights groups describe the unrest as the most significant challenge to Iran’s clerical leadership since 2022, spreading across major cities and dozens of towns.

According to Norway-based Iran Human Rights, at least 192 protesters have been killed since the demonstrations began. The US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency reported more than 500 deaths, with over 10,600 arrests. Iranian authorities have yet to release official casualty figures. A government-imposed internet blackout since January 8 has made independent verification difficult.

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Protests in support of demonstrators inside Iran have also emerged internationally, including in London and Los Angeles, where a U-Haul truck incident during a rally on January 11 caused injuries.

Araqchi claimed the protests were “under total control” and accused what he described as terrorists of exploiting Trump’s warnings to provoke violence and prompt foreign intervention. Iranian leaders have repeatedly blamed the United States and Israel for stoking unrest.

President Trump, meanwhile, cautioned Iranian leaders against killing protesters and said the US military was reviewing “very strong options.” He noted that Iranian officials had requested negotiations, which are being facilitated through Switzerland, but warned that the US could act before discussions commence. Talks are expected to include Iran’s disputed nuclear program.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that contacts with the US remain open and emphasized that Iran “never left the negotiating table,” while criticizing the US for sending contradictory messages.

In Tehran, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf addressed crowds at Enqelab Square, asserting that Iran is engaged in multiple fronts of struggle, including economic, psychological, military, and a war against terrorism. Araqchi also claimed that since the protests began, 53 mosques and 180 ambulances have been set on fire, insisting that “no Iranian would attack a mosque.”

The situation underscores heightened Iran-US tensions and growing domestic instability, with the world closely monitoring potential military and diplomatic developments.

Iran Ready for War but Keeps Door Open for US Talks Amid Nationwide Protests