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‘We Don’t Want War But…’ Iran Hits Back At Trump Threat As Protests Rage

Iran signals readiness for talks but warns of war as Trump threatens intervention amid deadly protests and continued nationwide unrest.

By : Ritwik Dutta | Updated at : 12 Jan 2026 09:12 PM (IST)

Iran protests trump khamenei war threat iran ready talks ‘We Don’t Want War But…’ Iran Hits Back At Trump Threat As Protests Rage

Trump claimed a day earlier that Iran’s leadership was eager to negotiate.

Source : Digital Media

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Amid escalating nationwide protests in Iran, tensions with the United States have sharpened after US President Donald Trump threatened possible military intervention. Responding to the warning, Iran’s leadership signalled both defiance and openness to diplomacy, even as the crackdown on protests continues across the country. Addressing a conference of foreign ambassadors in Tehran on Monday, January 12, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran does not seek war but is fully prepared for it. At the same time, he said Tehran remains open to talks with Washington, provided negotiations are conducted on equal terms and with mutual respect.

Talks Open, Tensions Escalate Sharply

Trump had claimed a day earlier that Iran’s leadership was eager to negotiate, while also warning of military action if protesters were harmed. Protests triggered by rising inflation have raged for over two weeks, with hundreds reportedly killed during the unrest. Araghchi accused the United States of exploiting the violence, alleging that the protests were deliberately turned violent to give Trump a pretext for intervention. Iran’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that communication channels remain open between Araghchi and the US President’s special envoy.

Khamenei Defiant As Iran Mobilises

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei struck a defiant tone in a separate address, warning that Trump would also “fall” like past rulers who were toppled at the height of their power. Meanwhile, thousands of pro-government supporters rallied across Iran to display strength, as the Speaker of Parliament warned that any US attack would put American forces and Israel in Iran’s sights. Internet services remain suspended in many parts of the country, deepening isolation amid the crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Iran's stance on potential military intervention by the US?

Iran's leadership signals defiance and readiness for war but also expresses openness to diplomacy. They state they do not seek war but are fully prepared for it.

What are the reasons behind the ongoing protests in Iran?

The protests are triggered by rising inflation and have been ongoing for over two weeks. Hundreds have reportedly been killed during the unrest.

What conditions does Iran have for talks with Washington?

Iran is open to talks with Washington, provided negotiations are conducted on equal terms and with mutual respect.

What is Iran's accusation against the United States regarding the protests?

Iran's Foreign Minister accused the United States of exploiting the violence and alleges the protests were deliberately turned violent to give Trump a pretext for intervention.

About the author Ritwik Dutta

Ritwik Dutta is a Senior Copy Editor at ABP Live English, who blends an engineer’s precision with a reporter’s instinct. With a background in data and analytics, he delivers evidence-driven, real-time coverage of key national and global developments, breaking down complex subjects into clear, engaging stories that make information more accessible and strengthen public understanding.

For tips and queries, write to ritwikd@abpnetwork.com.

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Published at : 12 Jan 2026 09:12 PM (IST)

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Iran Ayatollah Khamenei TRUMP