U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that the United States may engage in discussions with Iranian officials while also evaluating military options in light of the violent suppression of protests in Iran. These protests, which began in late December 2025 over economic grievances, have escalated into widespread discontent against the clerical regime, marking the most significant challenge to its authority since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has stated that Iran is prepared for both dialogue and military action, asserting that the situation is 'under total control' despite the ongoing unrest. Communications between Araqchi and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff are reportedly ongoing, facilitated through Switzerland.

Reports from the U.S.-based rights group HRANA indicate that at least 490 protesters and 48 security personnel have died, with over 10,600 arrests made. However, the Iranian government has not released an official death toll, and an internet blackout has further complicated the flow of information from the country. In contrast, the Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights reports that at least 648 individuals have been killed during the protests.

While the U.S. administration has emphasized a preference for diplomatic solutions, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that military options, including airstrikes, remain on the table if deemed necessary. Trump has warned Iranian officials about their treatment of protesters, stating that the U.S. is 'locked and loaded and ready to go' should the situation escalate.

Despite the scale of the protests, there are no indications of significant divisions within the Shia clerical leadership or security forces, and the opposition remains fragmented. The Iranian leadership has attempted to downplay the unrest, attributing it to 'American-Zionist terrorism.' As the U.S. considers its response, some senators have cautioned against military action, suggesting it could exacerbate the situation further.

The protests have highlighted widespread frustration with the Revolutionary Guards, whose extensive business interests are seen as contributing to economic hardship. In a potential humanitarian response, Trump has expressed a willingness to discuss restoring internet access in Iran through satellite services, underscoring the importance of communication amid civil unrest.