ISLAMABAD: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Monday that no country would tolerate terrorist violence against its civilians and armed forces, stressing that Tehran is prepared both for conflict and negotiations, provided talks are fair and not imposed, state-run Press TV reported.
Speaking to foreign diplomats in Tehran, Araghchi condemned what he described as US- and Israeli-backed terrorist violence that erupted after peaceful economic protests in late December. He stated that the initial demonstrations were legitimate and constitutionally protected, and that government engagement and reforms had helped alleviate tensions.
However, from Jan. 8 onwards, he said armed groups entered the unrest, distributing weapons and attempting to provoke mass casualties. Iranian security forces, he added, responded with restraint while seeking to prevent violence.
Araghchi accused Washington and Israel of interference, citing what he said was evidence of foreign involvement, including claims of Mossad-linked operatives active inside Iran. He also criticized former US president Donald Trump’s remarks on possible US intervention, calling them “outright interference.”
The foreign minister said Western governments were wrongly condemning Iranian law enforcement while ignoring what he termed terrorism, accusing them of “shedding crocodile tears” and applying double standards.
More than 70% of Iranians support firm action against violent rioters, he said, adding that while peaceful protest is a right, no state tolerates arson, terrorism, or live fire against civilians and security forces.
Referring to recent unrest as a continuation of earlier conflict, Araghchi warned adversaries against miscalculation. “Iran does not seek war, but is ready for it,” he said, adding that the country’s readiness now exceeds levels seen during the June fighting.
At the same time, he said Tehran remains open to negotiations — but only on equal footing and without pressure.
Trump threatens Iran, again
The statement comes hours after the US President Donald Trump threatened to intervene militarily if Tehran killed protesters.
For two weeks, Iran has been rocked by a protest movement that has swelled despite a crackdown.
Initially sparked by anger over the rising cost of living, the demonstrations have evolved into a serious challenge to the Iranian government.
Information has continued to trickle out of Iran despite a days-long internet shutdown, with videos filtering out of the capital, Tehran, and other cities over the past three nights showing large demonstrations.
"The leaders of Iran called yesterday," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, adding that “a meeting is being set up... They want to negotiate."
He added, however, that "we may have to act before a meeting."
