Washington, D.C. – The Trump administration has signaled that the United States could carry out air strikes against Iran, though officials continue to emphasize that diplomacy remains the preferred approach. The announcement comes as widespread antigovernment protests and violent crackdowns rock Iran, intensifying tensions between Tehran and Washington.

White House Signals Military Options Remain “On the Table”

On Monday, January 12, 2026, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that President Donald Trump keeps “all options on the table” regarding Iran, including potential military strikes.

“One thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table. And air strikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the commander in chief,” Leavitt said.

While emphasizing that diplomacy is always the first option, Leavitt confirmed that the administration has not ruled out military action, signaling that Trump is willing to escalate if Tehran fails to comply with US demands.

Context: Protests and Humanitarian Crisis in Iran

Iran has been experiencing large-scale antigovernment protests, triggered by political repression, economic hardships, and growing public dissatisfaction with the ruling regime. Security forces have responded with lethal crackdowns, reportedly killing hundreds of protesters. Iranian officials claim dozens of security personnel have also died during clashes, though opposition activists allege the death toll is higher.

Independent verification has been extremely difficult due to internet blackouts and restrictions on reporting inside Iran. Human rights organizations have expressed grave concern over the escalating violence.

Trump’s Past Actions and Current Threats

President Trump previously bombed Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025 during a 12-day conflict initiated by Israel, marking a significant escalation in US-Iran tensions. The administration has repeatedly threatened further military action should Iran fail to meet Washington’s nuclear and military demands.

Legal experts have warned that a US strike could violate international law, raising the risk of broader geopolitical conflict in the Middle East.

Internal Debate in the Trump Administration

According to The Wall Street Journal, some Trump administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance, have urged the president to explore diplomatic alternatives or less severe measures rather than immediate military strikes.

Leavitt clarified that, while Iran appears open to negotiations, private communications from Tehran differ from its public messaging.

“What you’re hearing publicly from the Iranian regime is quite different from the messages the administration is receiving privately. The president has shown he’s unafraid to use military options if and when he deems necessary, and nobody knows that better than Iran,” she said.

Iran’s Response: Prepared for Conflict

In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned the United States that Tehran is ready for war if Washington challenges its sovereignty.

“Channels of communication with the US remain open, but Iran is prepared for all options. Our military readiness is far more extensive now compared to last year’s 12-day conflict with Israel,” Araghchi said.

Iran’s government faces internal instability, with the combination of protests, economic struggles, and international sanctions creating a volatile environment.

Trump Implements Tariffs on Iran’s Trading Partners

Late Monday, Trump announced on Truth Social that any country trading with Iran would face a 25 percent US tariff, “effective immediately.” The order was described as “final and conclusive,” though details remain unclear, including which nations might be targeted and whether enforcement will cover all of Iran’s trading partners.

Analysts warn that combining military threats with sweeping economic penalties could heighten regional tensions and disrupt global trade networks, particularly affecting countries such as China, Russia, Brazil, Turkey, Iraq, and the UAE that maintain strong commercial ties with Iran.