Iran’s government said on Monday that it is prepared to enter negotiations with the United States, even as it warned that the country remains fully ready to defend itself militarily amid ongoing nationwide protests and rising international tension. The statement came after US President Donald Trump suggested that Iran’s leadership had expressed interest in talks following his repeated warnings of possible military intervention.
Speaking at a conference of foreign ambassadors in Tehran that was broadcast on state television, Iran’s foreign minister said the country was not seeking a military confrontation but would respond decisively if threatened. He stressed that Iran was open to dialogue, provided that any negotiations were conducted on the basis of mutual respect, fairness, and equal rights between the two sides. The remarks appeared aimed at signaling diplomatic openness while reinforcing Iran’s position that it would not negotiate under pressure.
Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, said Iran’s leaders had reached out to his administration and indicated a willingness to negotiate. He added that arrangements for a meeting were being discussed, but warned that action could come before any talks take place. His comments fueled uncertainty over whether diplomacy or escalation would define the next phase of US-Iran relations, particularly as unrest continues inside Iran.
Protests erupted across the country more than two weeks ago, initially driven by frustration over rising prices and worsening economic conditions. Demonstrations have since expanded, drawing a heavy security response from authorities. Human rights groups report that the death toll has risen sharply as security forces moved to suppress the unrest, although official figures have not been released by the government.
According to the Norway-based organization Iran Human Rights, at least 192 protesters have been killed since the demonstrations began, while cautioning that the real number may be significantly higher. The group cited unverified reports suggesting that several hundred people, and possibly more than 2,000, may have lost their lives during the crackdown. It also estimated that more than 2,600 people have been arrested in connection with the protests.
At the same time, access to information has been sharply curtailed. Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported that a nationwide internet shutdown had extended well beyond two days, with network data indicating that the blackout had passed the 84-hour mark. The prolonged disruption has limited communication inside the country and made it difficult to independently verify developments on the ground.
The convergence of internal unrest, international pressure, and the prospect of negotiations has placed Iran at a critical juncture. While officials emphasize readiness for diplomacy, warnings from Washington and the continuing violence on the streets underscore the fragile and volatile nature of the situation. Observers say the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the crisis moves toward dialogue or further confrontation.
