U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday indicated that Tehran is seeking negotiations while simultaneously warning of possible military strikes in response to the regime’s violent suppression of demonstrators.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, President Trump claimed that Iranian officials had reached out to negotiate, stating, “Iran called, they want to negotiate.” However, he emphasized that the U.S. is weighing “very strong options,” including potential military action, if the crackdown intensifies.
Trump further warned that any Iranian retaliation would be met with unprecedented force, adding, “If they do that, we will hit them at levels that they’ve never been hit before.”
The White House is reportedly considering a range of responses, from expanded sanctions and cyber operations to bolstering internet access for protesters via satellites, or even direct military strikes.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi addressed foreign diplomats in Tehran on January 12, declaring the protests “under total control” after a spike in violence over the weekend.
He accused the U.S. and Israel of fueling a “terrorist war,” claiming Trump’s threats encouraged violence to justify intervention. Araghchi emphasized Iran’s preparedness: “We are not seeking war but are fully prepared for war… We are also ready for negotiations based on mutual respect.”
Human rights groups estimate at least 544 deaths as of January 12, including 496 protesters and 48 security personnel, though opposition figures claim over 3,000. The nationwide internet and phone blackout, now in its fifth day, has made verification challenging, with information leaking via satellite or smuggled footage. Activists warn the shutdown is enabling a “massacre,” with morgues reportedly overflowing.
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