Trump Weighs Tough Response to Iran Protest Crackdown as Tehran Signals Talks With U.S.
GeokHub
GEOKHUB | Dubai/Washington — Jan 12 Iran said on Monday that communication channels with the United States remain open, even as President Donald Trump weighed possible responses to a violent crackdown on nationwide protests that have become one of the most serious challenges to Iran’s clerical leadership in decades.
The unrest, which began late last month over rising prices, has evolved into direct calls for an end to religious rule, with demonstrations spreading across major cities despite a sweeping internet shutdown that has limited independent reporting.
Trump said over the weekend that Washington may meet with Iranian officials and is already in contact with opposition figures, while warning that the U.S. could act if violence against protesters continues.
“Iran called. They want to negotiate,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. “A meeting is being set up, but we may have to act before that meeting.”
Death Toll Rises Amid Internet Blackout
U.S.-based rights group HRANA says it has confirmed nearly 500 protester deaths, along with dozens of security personnel killed and more than 10,000 arrests since demonstrations erupted on December 28. Reuters and other international outlets have been unable to independently verify the figures due to Iran’s near-total internet blackout.
Verified footage circulating online shows grieving families gathering at forensic centers in Tehran, standing beside rows of body bags. Iranian authorities have not released an official casualty count.
State media has blamed the violence on foreign-backed groups, accusing the United States and Israel of fomenting unrest. Coverage has largely focused on casualties among security forces.
Tehran Says Diplomatic Channel Remains Open
Iran’s Foreign Ministry said messages are being exchanged directly between Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, with Switzerland continuing to serve as a traditional intermediary.
“The Islamic Republic has never left the negotiating table,” ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, while accusing Washington of sending mixed and contradictory signals.
Araqchi told foreign diplomats in Tehran that Iran remains open to dialogue but is also prepared for conflict if necessary.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned Washington against what he called “miscalculation,” saying U.S. bases and Israeli territory would be considered legitimate targets if Iran were attacked.
U.S. Considers Options, Risks Escalation
Trump is expected to meet senior advisers this week to review policy options. U.S. officials and media reports say those options could include tougher sanctions, cyber operations, support for protest communications, or limited military strikes.
Analysts warn that direct strikes would carry high risks, as many Iranian military and security installations are located near civilian areas.
Iran is still recovering from last year’s brief but intense conflict with Israel and the United States, which targeted Iranian nuclear facilities and killed several senior commanders. Tehran’s regional influence has also weakened following heavy blows to allied groups, including Hezbollah.
Government Claims Control, Plans Rallies
Iranian officials insist the situation is now under control and say internet services will be gradually restored in coordination with security agencies.
Authorities have called for nationwide rallies to denounce what they describe as foreign-backed “terrorism,” while state television broadcast large funeral processions for security forces killed during the unrest.
Despite official assurances, analysts say Iran faces a volatile standoff between public anger, economic strain, and mounting international pressure.
