Iran says it is open to talks with US but prepared for war

Report on Iran’s Position: Open to Talks with the US but Prepared for War

On January 12, 2026, Iranian officials declared that while the country remains open to dialogue with the United States, it is simultaneously prepared for war if necessary. This statement comes amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington, driven by widespread anti-government protests in Iran and warnings of possible US intervention by President Donald Trump.

Background of the Protests

The unrest in Iran began in late December 2025, triggered by soaring prices and the collapse of the Iranian rial. These economic hardships quickly evolved into mass demonstrations across major cities and dozens of towns nationwide. Human rights organizations have described the protests as the most significant challenge to Iran’s clerical leadership since 2022. Reports vary on the scale of casualties: Iran Human Rights, based in Norway, confirmed at least 192 deaths, while the US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency reported over 500 deaths and more than 10,600 arrests. Iranian authorities have not released official figures, and a government-imposed internet blackout since January 8 has complicated independent verification of events.

Iranian Government’s Position

Speaking to foreign ambassadors in Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi emphasized that Iran is “not looking for war” but is ready if conflict becomes unavoidable. He accused external actors, particularly the United States and Israel, of fueling unrest and claimed that terrorists were exploiting Trump’s warnings to provoke violence. Araqchi also alleged that protesters had attacked religious and public institutions, citing the burning of 53 mosques and 180 ambulances, and insisted that “no Iranian would attack a mosque.” Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf echoed these sentiments, describing Iran’s struggle as multifaceted—economic, psychological, military, and against terrorism.

US Response

President Trump has repeatedly warned Iran’s leadership against killing protesters. On January 11, he stated that the US military was reviewing “very strong options” and revealed that Iranian officials had reached out to negotiate. He suggested that talks would include Iran’s disputed nuclear program but left open the possibility of military action before negotiations occur. Trump’s remarks underscore the duality of Washington’s stance: openness to dialogue coupled with threats of intervention.

Diplomatic Channels

Despite the hostile rhetoric, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that contacts between the two countries remain open through Switzerland, which has traditionally served as an intermediary. Baghaei insisted that Iran “never left the negotiating table” but accused the US of sending contradictory signals. This highlights the fragile nature of ongoing diplomatic engagement, where both sides express willingness to talk but maintain aggressive postures.

International Dimension

The protests have resonated beyond Iran’s borders, with demonstrations in support of Iranian protesters emerging in cities such as London and Los Angeles. In one incident in Los Angeles, a driver plowed a U-Haul truck into a crowd during a rally, underscoring the volatility surrounding the issue. These international demonstrations reflect the global concern over Iran’s internal crisis and the potential for broader geopolitical consequences.

Let’s Take A Break

Iran’s declaration that it is open to talks with the United States but prepared for war encapsulates the precarious balance between diplomacy and confrontation. The domestic unrest, marked by severe casualties and mass arrests, has intensified pressure on the Iranian leadership. Meanwhile, the US has signaled both openness to negotiation and readiness for military action. With Switzerland serving as a diplomatic intermediary, the coming weeks will likely determine whether dialogue prevails or whether the situation escalates into direct conflict.