WASHINGTON, D.C, January 13 —Iran declared it is “prepared for war” but open to negotiations with the United States, as the Trump administration considers military intervention following weeks of deadly anti-government protests. The stark juxtaposition comes amid a severe crackdown, with rights groups reporting over 500 protester deaths and a nationwide communications blackout.
What is the current situation with Iran protests?
Protests have entered a third week amid a severe government response. A U.S.-based human rights group reports more than 500 protesters have been killed and nearly 10,700 arrested.Iranian authorities have imposed a communications blackout, now in its fourth day, severely limiting information flow. Iranian leaders have appeared at state-organized rallies, labeling the demonstrations “foreign-backed riots,” with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accusing U.S. politicians of “deception.”
What is the US response to Iran?
The Trump administration is actively weighing potential military options, according to sources, as President Donald Trump considers following through on his threat to strike the regime if it uses lethal force against civilians. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the president “does not want to see people being killed in the streets of Tehran.” She confirmed that Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is a key player in ongoing diplomatic discussions with Iran.
Are the US and Iran talking?
Yes, despite public threats, diplomatic channels are open. Iran’s foreign minister has communicated in recent days with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The White House highlighted a divergence in messaging, with Leavitt noting the private messages from Iran are “quite” different from its public declarations of being “prepared for war.”
What is Kataib Hezbollah’s warning?
Kataib Hezbollah, the most powerful Iran-backed militia in Iraq, issued a direct threat to the United States, cautioning against military conflict. The group stated, “war against Iran is not a picnic, but a fire that, if ignited, will not be extinguished.” By portraying the defense of Iran as a defense of Muslim sanctities, it also called for unity with the Iranian people. Given Iraq’s close religious and cultural links to Iran, this highlights the regional possibility of escalation.
Have the protests spread internationally?
Yes, demonstrations have extended beyond Iran’s borders. In Los Angeles, an individual was detained after driving a truck into a crowd of anti-Iranian government protesters. The incident demonstrates how the worldwide diaspora is experiencing explosive emotions due to the internal turmoil.
FAQ: Iran Crisis and U.S. Stance
Q: How many people have died in the Iran protests?
A: According to a U.S.-based rights group, more than 500 protesters have been killed and almost 10,700 arrested since the unrest began three weeks ago.
Q: Is the U.S. planning military action in Iran?
A: The Trump administration is weighing potential military options and has threatened strikes if the Iranian regime uses lethal force against civilians. No decision has been announced.
Q: What did the White House say about talks with Iran?
A: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed diplomatic discussions are ongoing via Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and noted that Iran’s private messages to the U.S. are “quite different” from its public, bellicose statements.
