President Donald Trump has said that Iran has approached Washington seeking negotiations, but he warned that the United States might act before any formal talks take place. His comments come amid a severe crackdown on widespread protests in Iran against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the government.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “They want to negotiate … a meeting is being set up.” At the same time, he indicated that recent developments in Iran may force the US to consider other measures before a meeting occurs. “We may have to act before a meeting,” he added, highlighting rising tensions between the two nations.
Iran has been facing its largest wave of anti-government protests in years, driven by economic difficulties and political grievances. Rights groups estimate that over 500 people have been killed, and thousands arrested, though Iranian authorities have not released official figures. The unrest has drawn global attention and concern over human rights violations.
Trump also noted that US military leaders are “looking at it very seriously” and considering “strong options,” though he did not specify what these could entail. When asked if Iran had crossed a “red line,” he avoided giving details but warned that any attack on US interests would be met with overwhelming force. “If they do that, we will hit them at levels they’ve never been hit before,” he said.
Iranian officials, while maintaining their readiness for conflict, have signaled an openness to dialogue. Tehran’s foreign minister stressed that any talks with the US would need to be based on mutual respect. Despite this, the government continues to emphasize that it will defend itself if attacked.
The situation illustrates a tense standoff between Washington and Tehran, with both diplomacy and potential military action on the table. International observers are closely monitoring the unfolding events, as Iran navigates internal unrest and the risk of escalation with the US remains high.
