As of January 12, 2026, Iran’s government has declared itself “prepared for war” while simultaneously signaling a willingness to negotiate with the United States. This diplomatic overture comes as President Donald Trump confirmed that Tehran reached out to initiate talks, even as he weighs military intervention in response to the regime’s violent suppression of nationwide protests. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that while the channel to U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff remains open, any dialogue must be based on “mutual respect” and the recognition of Iran’s right to nuclear enrichment, a long-standing red line for Washington.
🗣️ ‘We’re looking at very strong options.’
Iran claims it is ‘ready for war but also dialogue’ with US as death toll from protests surpasses 500.
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— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) January 12, 2026
The internal situation in Iran has grown increasingly dire during the third week of unrest. Human rights groups report that the death toll has surpassed 500 protesters, with nearly 10,700 arrests made during a brutal crackdown. Authorities have maintained a near-total communications blackout for over three days and are reportedly raiding homes to seize Starlink satellite kits used to bypass state internet controls. While top officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, held pro-regime rallies to dismiss the protests as “foreign-backed riots,” international pressure is mounting. The European Parliament has officially banned all Iranian diplomats from its premises, and several European leaders have issued stern condemnations of the “terrible violence” being used against civilians.
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