Tehran (TDI): Iran said on Monday it is prepared both for military confrontation and diplomatic engagement, as US President Donald Trump weighed possible responses to an escalating crackdown on anti-government protests across the country.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told foreign ambassadors in Tehran that the situation was now “under total control” following a surge in violence over the weekend.
“We are ready for war, but also ready for dialogue,” Araqchi said. He accused what he described as “terrorist elements” of deliberately targeting both protesters and security forces in an attempt to provoke foreign intervention. Araqchi said Trump’s warnings against Tehran had encouraged such actions, according to AFP.
His comments came after Trump said the United States was actively reviewing options, including possible military action, as protests intensified and reports of casualties mounted.
Read More: Iran Protests Leave Over 500 Dead as Tensions Escalate: Rights Group
Asked aboard Air Force One whether Iran had crossed his previously stated red line regarding the killing of protesters, Trump replied: “They’re starting to, it looks like.”
“We’re looking at it very seriously,” he said. “The military is looking at it, and we’re looking at some very strong options. We’ll make a determination.”
Trump also claimed that Iranian leaders had reached out following his threats of force. “The leaders of Iran called,” he said, adding that a meeting was being arranged. “They want to negotiate.” However, he cautioned that “we may have to act before a meeting.”
Read More: Trump Claims Iran Seeks Negotiations Amid Protests, Hints at Possible Military Action
China weighed in on the crisis on Monday, urging restraint and opposing any foreign intervention in Iran’s internal affairs. Beijing hopes the Iranian government and people can overcome the current challenges and maintain stability, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular briefing.
“China opposes the use or threat of force in international relations,” Mao said, adding that sovereignty and security must be protected under international law.
