Trump Says Iran Seeks Talks as U.S. Considering Military Options

U.S. President Donald Trump said Iranian leaders contacted him seeking negotiations amid rising protest deaths, while Washington reviews possible military responses.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday, January 12, 2026, that Iranian leaders have contacted him seeking negotiations amid ongoing nationwide protests in Iran.

Trump told reporters that a meeting has been tentatively scheduled, but developments on the ground could force the United States to take action before the talks occur. He said he is reviewing “very strong options” regarding Iran and receives hourly updates on the situation.

The president reiterated that the United States supports the ongoing protests and has repeatedly warned Tehran that any violent crackdown on demonstrators would trigger a “very severe” response.

Iranian officials, including the speaker of parliament, have responded to U.S. threats, declaring that any attack on Iran would make U.S. bases and Israel legitimate targets. Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader described protesters as “destructive” and accused them of damaging public property to please the U.S. president.

The protests in Iran began 16 days ago, initially sparked by rising currency exchange rates and economic grievances, before quickly evolving into a broader anti-government movement.

Authorities have responded with a nationwide internet shutdown since Thursday and widespread security operations, which human rights groups say have resulted in hundreds of deaths and thousands of arrests.

Trump’s announcement of potential negotiations underscores the high-stakes international attention on Iran, with Washington signaling both support for demonstrators and readiness for military options.

The situation remains volatile, and any U.S.-Iran engagement will depend on rapidly changing developments, including domestic unrest and the Iranian leadership’s willingness to engage in dialogue.

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