Iran ‘Prepared for War’ as Protests Turn Deadly

A deadly three-week crackdown on anti-government protests in Iran has killed hundreds and pushed the country to the brink. Tehran is now warning it is “prepared for war” even as US talks are floated.

CNN has reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that a communication channel with US special envoy Steve Witkoff remains open. He said Iran is willing to negotiate only on the basis of “mutual respect and interests,” while insisting the country is also ready for conflict.

US President Donald Trump claimed Iran reached out to negotiate as Washington weighs further possible military action, according to CNN.

The Human Rights Activist News Agency reports at least 495 protesters have been killed and more than 10,600 arrested since demonstrations began over soaring inflation and governance. Iranian authorities have imposed a near-total internet blackout, now entering its fourth day.

Meanwhile, the European Parliament has banned all Iranian diplomats and representatives from its premises. Parliament President Roberta Metsola said the EU would not “legitimise this regime.”

Iran has warned it will retaliate if attacked, saying US and Israeli interests would become legitimate targets, CNN reported. Protesters are now openly calling for an end to clerical rule.

The unrest is now the country’s most extensive protests since 2022, when nationwide demonstrations erupted after the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish woman detained by Iran’s morality police over allegedly not wearing her hijab properly.