Iran Ready for War and Negotiations as Protest Death Toll Rises

Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday declared that the country is “fully prepared for war” while also expressing readiness for negotiations with the United States amid escalating nationwide protests. The unrest, initially sparked by economic grievances, has rapidly grown into one of the biggest challenges to the Islamic Republic since the 1979 revolution.

Authorities have imposed an internet blackout lasting over three-and-a-half days, severely restricting Iranians’ ability to share videos and updates about the protests. Activists warn that the government is attempting to conceal the scale of the crackdown, which has reportedly claimed hundreds, if not thousands, of lives. Video footage circulating online shows bodies accumulating at morgues near Tehran, intensifying global concern.

While Iranian state media portrays calm, with traffic flowing smoothly and pro-government rallies being broadcast, non-governmental groups report high casualties. The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) group confirmed at least 192 deaths but estimates suggest the toll may exceed 2,000. Meanwhile, opposition groups claim over 3,000 protesters have been killed, and more than 2,600 arrests have been made.

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The U.S., represented in Iran by the Swiss embassy, continues limited communications, with President Donald Trump stating that Tehran has sought negotiations. “They want to negotiate, but we may have to act before a meeting,” Trump said, underscoring the heightened risk of military escalation. Oman’s foreign minister also met Araghchi in Tehran, signaling regional mediation efforts.

Exiled Iranian royal Reza Pahlavi has urged state employees and security forces to side with protesters, calling for solidarity with the population and urging the replacement of Iranian flags abroad with the pre-revolution emblem. Demonstrations in cities like London have mirrored this symbolic act, highlighting growing international support for the Iranian demonstrators.

The situation remains volatile, with mass rallies planned in Tehran and other cities despite the blackout. The Iranian government has declared three days of national mourning for those killed in what it terms “riots,” but the mounting reports of deaths and arrests suggest deepening unrest that could have serious domestic and international consequences.

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