Washington: US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that his administration is considering a tough response to Iran’s violent crackdown on nationwide protests even as Tehran has reached out to negotiate with Washington.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said Iranian officials had contacted the United States to discuss possible talks including issues linked to Iran’s nuclear programme. He added that while diplomacy remains an option the United States would not rule out strong action if the situation inside Iran continues to worsen.
Iran has been rocked by widespread protests since late December triggered by economic hardship and anger over governance. The demonstrations quickly spread across major cities and towns turning into one of the most serious challenges to Iran’s leadership in decades.
Human rights groups based outside Iran say more than 500 people have been killed and thousands arrested during the security forces’ response. Iranian authorities have not released official figures and have restricted internet access making independent verification difficult.
Trump said he would meet senior advisers to review possible options which could include new sanctions cyber measures or other steps. He stressed that the United States was watching closely how Iranian authorities were handling the unrest and warned that further bloodshed would carry consequences.
Iranian officials meanwhile sent mixed signals. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Iran was open to dialogue but also warned that the country was ready to defend itself if attacked. Tehran has accused foreign powers including the United States of fuelling the protests a claim denied by Washington.
Iran’s leadership has organised pro government rallies and declared days of mourning for security personnel killed during the unrest. At the same time senior Iranian lawmakers warned that US or Israeli interests in the region could be targeted if Iran comes under attack.
The unfolding crisis has drawn international concern with Western governments criticising Iran’s use of force while urging restraint. Analysts say the situation places both Washington and Tehran at a sensitive crossroads where diplomacy and confrontation are unfolding side by side.
For now the White House says no final decision has been made and that all options remain on the table as the unrest in Iran shows no clear sign of easing.