Tehran, Iran – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned the United States that Iran is prepared for war if Washington attempts military action, amid nationwide protests and President Donald Trump’s threats of intervention. At the same time, Araghchi emphasized that dialogue remains possible, signaling that Tehran is open to negotiations under the right conditions.

Iran Signals Military Readiness

In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera Arabic on Monday, January 12, 2026, Araghchi said that Iran’s military preparedness is now “large and extensive” compared to last year’s 12-day war with Israel. He asserted that the country is ready for “all options” should the United States attempt to test Iran militarily.

“If Washington wants to test the military option it has tested before, we are ready for it,” Araghchi said.

He added a warning to those attempting to drag the United States into war for Israel’s interests, urging that the “wise option” would be dialogue rather than confrontation.

Context: Protests and Tensions

Iran has experienced widespread antigovernment protests over the past two weeks, fueled by economic hardship and calls for systemic reform. Security forces have responded with lethal force, and state media reported that over 100 security personnel have been killed, while opposition groups claim hundreds of protesters have died.

The flow of information has been severely restricted by an internet blackout, which NetBlocks reported had lasted 96 hours as of Monday afternoon. Araghchi said service would resume in coordination with security authorities.

US Threats and Ongoing Communication

The warnings from Iran follow Trump’s remarks on Sunday, when he indicated he was considering “strong options” against Iran, including potential military strikes in response to the crackdown on protesters. The US president has previously ordered military action abroad, including the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in 2025, heightening regional tensions.

Despite the threats, Araghchi said that channels of communication with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff remain open:

“Communications with the US have continued before and after the protests and are still ongoing. Ideas discussed with Washington are being studied in Tehran, but threats against our country are incompatible with serious dialogue.”

Araghchi stressed that Iran is ready to return to the nuclear negotiating table, provided discussions are free from threats or ultimatums.

Parliament Speaker Issues Strong Warning

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also warned that US military forces and Israel would be “legitimate targets” if intervention occurs, cautioning Washington against miscalculations.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded by saying Iran’s private messages differ significantly from public statements, according to an interview on Fox News’ America Reports. The administration is reportedly weighing Iran’s offer to engage in military discussions, even as Trump continues to consider potential strikes.

Looking Ahead

Iran’s firm stance combines preparedness for conflict with a willingness to engage in diplomacy, creating a tense but potentially negotiable situation. Analysts warn that missteps from either side could escalate into a broader regional confrontation.