Washington: US President Donald Trump indicated that Iran has shown interest in opening dialogue with Washington, even as he issued a sharp warning amid reports of a deadly government crackdown on protesters across the country.
Speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One, Trump said Tehran had initiated contact with the United States and suggested discussions to ease tensions. According to him, his team is exploring the possibility of arranging a meeting with Iranian representatives. However, he made it clear that diplomatic efforts may not prevent decisive action if the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate.
Trump linked the outreach from Iran to mounting pressure from the US, remarking that sustained economic and political measures had left Tehran with limited options. “They’ve taken a lot of pressure from us,” he said, adding that Iran was now looking for a way forward through negotiations.
His comments come against the backdrop of widespread unrest in Iran, where nationwide protests have been met with a severe response from security forces. Human rights activists claim that at least 544 people have been killed so far, with fears that the actual number could be significantly higher. Thousands of demonstrators have reportedly been detained as authorities attempt to quell dissent.
Trump warned that while talks remain a possibility, the US would not remain passive if violence continues. He suggested that developments in Iran could force his hand before any formal dialogue begins.
The Iranian government has not publicly responded to Trump’s remarks, while international concern continues to grow over the escalating death toll and mass arrests linked to the protests.