KABUL: Dr. Sayed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, responded to remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, stating that Iran is prepared for both war and negotiation. According to Iran’s state media, Araghchi said today during a meeting with foreign ambassadors in Tehran that while Iran does not seek war, it is “fully prepared” for any potential conflict. He also emphasized that Tehran is ready for “fair, honorable negotiation on equal footing, with mutual respect and based on mutual interests.” The statements come in the wake of Trump’s assertion earlier today that Iranian leaders have reached out to him seeking negotiations. Trump added that a meeting is being planned, but indicated that an “action” may occur before this meeting due to ongoing developments. In recent days, the U.S. President has warned that if the Iranian government continues to suppress protesters, it will face a “very hard blow” from the United States. Araghchi also referenced the internal protests, stating, “We initially had demonstrations, and at a certain point, we began to experience terrorist operations, and we must differentiate between the two.” He claimed that Iran possesses substantial evidence indicating U.S. and Israeli involvement in what he termed the recent “terrorist actions.” Araghchi described these acts as a “significant threat,” asserting that certain restrictions in the country will remain in place until it is ensured that no threat exists. The popular protests in Iran have now entered their sixteenth day. In response to the spread of these protests, the Iranian government cut off internet access nationwide since Thursday evening. As the nationwide internet blackout continues, international human rights organizations have expressed concerns over the widespread suppression of protesters by government forces.
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