Iran's top diplomat has issued a stark dual message, stating the Islamic Republic is fully prepared for war but also remains open to negotiations. This declaration comes amid a severe domestic crisis, with an exiled opposition group claiming the death toll from a government crackdown on nationwide protests has surpassed 3,000.
A Nation in Crisis: Protests and a Communication Blackout
The situation in Iran has reached a critical point. What began over two weeks ago as demonstrations fueled by economic grievances has transformed into one of the most significant challenges to the theocratic system that has ruled since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
In a move highlighting the severity of the unrest, authorities have imposed a sweeping internet blackout lasting more than three-and-a-half days. Activists and international observers assert this digital shutdown is a deliberate tactic to obscure the true scale of the violent state response against protesters.
Seeking to counter the protest movement, the Iranian government has mobilized its supporters, organizing rallies across the country to demonstrate backing for the Islamic Republic.
Mixed Signals on the International Stage
The domestic turmoil has triggered a complex international response, particularly from the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Sunday, January 10, 2026, that Iran's leadership under Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had contacted him seeking to negotiate. Trump has repeatedly threatened military intervention if Tehran continued its lethal suppression of protesters.
"The leaders of Iran called yesterday," Trump told reporters, adding that "a meeting is being set up... They want to negotiate." However, he cautioned that "we may have to act before a meeting," leaving the threat of preemptive U.S. action on the table.
Iran's Official Position: Prepared for Both War and Dialogue
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi formally articulated Tehran's position at a conference of foreign ambassadors on Monday, January 11. His statement, broadcast by state television, aimed to project strength and openness simultaneously.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran is not seeking war but is fully prepared for war," Araghchi declared. He added, "We are also ready for negotiations, but these negotiations should be fair, with equal rights and based on mutual respect."
Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations, a channel of communication remains open. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that messages are exchanged between Araghchi and Trump's special Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, with Swiss diplomats facilitating the contact in Tehran.
The diplomatic landscape saw further activity with the foreign minister of Oman, a nation known for mediation, meeting Araghchi in Tehran the previous Saturday.
The crisis presents a pivotal moment for Iran's leadership and its relations with the world. With a significant protest movement met with a harsh crackdown internally, and a volatile mix of military threats and diplomatic overtures externally, the path forward remains highly uncertain and dangerous.
