On January 12, 2026, Iran announced that it is keeping lines of communication open with the United States as President Donald Trump deliberates on potential responses to a violent crackdown on nationwide protests. These protests represent one of the most significant challenges to the clerical regime since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. According to the U.S.-based rights group HRANA, the death toll from the protests has reached 572, including 503 protesters and 69 security personnel, with over 10,000 arrests reported since the protests began on December 28, 2025.

The Iranian government has attributed the unrest to U.S. interference and alleged terrorist activities supported by the U.S. and Israel. State media has focused on the fatalities among security forces, while the flow of information has been severely restricted due to an internet blackout imposed by the government.

The protests, which initially arose from economic grievances, have escalated into broader calls for the resignation of the clerical leadership. Despite the scale of the demonstrations, there appears to be no significant division within the Shi'ite clerical leadership or the military, and the opposition remains fragmented without a unified leadership.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, indicated that while the U.S. has sent mixed signals, communication channels remain active, including through Switzerland as an intermediary. Iranian officials have expressed readiness for dialogue but have also warned of the potential for military conflict.

In a recent statement, Trump mentioned that Iran has expressed a desire to negotiate regarding its nuclear program, suggesting that a meeting could be arranged. However, he also indicated that military action might be necessary depending on the situation. Reports suggest that U.S. options under consideration include military strikes, cyber operations, and increased sanctions.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf cautioned against any military miscalculations by the U.S., asserting that any attack would target U.S. bases and Israel. The protests have highlighted growing discontent with the Revolutionary Guards, whose extensive business interests contribute to the economic challenges faced by the Iranian populace.

As the situation develops, Iranian officials claim that the unrest is under control, although violence has surged in recent days. The government has indicated that internet services will be restored in coordination with security measures.