Tehran Signals Readiness for Conflict While Leaving Door Open to Dialogue With Washington

Iran has said it is prepared for the possibility of war but remains open to talks with the United States, even as reports emerge of hundreds of people killed during weeks of nationwide anti-government protests.

Senior Iranian officials struck a defiant yet cautious tone, saying the country’s military and security forces are ready to defend national sovereignty against any external threat. At the same time, they stressed that Tehran has not ruled out diplomatic engagement with Washington, signaling a desire to avoid further escalation if talks can be conducted on what Iran describes as equal and respectful terms.

The comments come amid intense internal unrest. Protests have spread across multiple cities, driven by public anger over economic hardship, political repression, and social restrictions. Rights groups and activists claim that security forces have responded with lethal force, resulting in hundreds of deaths, though authorities have disputed those figures and blamed violence on what they describe as foreign-backed unrest.

Iran’s leadership has framed the demonstrations as a national security challenge, accusing outside powers of exploiting domestic grievances to destabilize the country. Officials say this alleged interference reinforces the need for military readiness, particularly as tensions with the United States and its regional allies remain high.

Despite the hardline rhetoric, Iranian diplomats have indicated that back-channel communications and potential negotiations are still possible, especially on issues related to sanctions relief and regional security. They argue that diplomacy, not confrontation, remains the preferred path — but insist Iran will not negotiate under pressure or threats.

In Washington, officials have sent mixed signals, combining warnings over Iran’s regional activities and human rights record with statements suggesting openness to renewed talks. Analysts say the parallel tracks of protest-driven instability and geopolitical brinkmanship have created a volatile moment, where miscalculation could quickly lead to wider conflict.

As protests continue and international pressure mounts, Iran’s attempt to balance internal control, military preparedness, and diplomatic outreach underscores the fragile state of both its domestic situation and its relations with the United States.

Author: M.J