Iranian FM to Al Jazeera: Iran warns US: 'We are ready for war' after Trump threats

Key Concepts

• Phases of Protests: Distinction between initial peaceful protests (Dec 28, 2025 – Jan 7, 2026) and subsequent violent unrest (Jan 8 – Jan 10, 2026 onwards).
• Terrorist Infiltration: Allegation of organized, externally-backed terrorist elements infiltrating protests to escalate violence and provoke US intervention.
• US/Israeli Involvement: Accusations of US and Israeli orchestration of unrest to destabilize Iran, citing statements from US officials and Israeli media.
• Internet Shutdown: Justification of internet restrictions as a necessary security measure to disrupt terrorist communications and coordination.
• Negotiation Conditions: Iran’s insistence on fair, mutual-respectful negotiations with the US, rejecting threats and preconditions.
• Nuclear Program: Reaffirmation of Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear energy use and refusal to relinquish enrichment rights.
• Readiness for Conflict: Declaration of Iran’s enhanced military preparedness and willingness to confront any US action.

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Iranian Protests and Foreign Policy: An Interview with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

Introduction

This transcript details an interview with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, conducted by Al Jazeera in Tehran amidst ongoing protests and heightened tensions with the United States. The interview focuses on the Iranian government’s perspective on the protests, allegations of foreign interference, and the prospects for renewed negotiations with the US.

I. The Nature of the Protests & Government Response

Araghchi characterized the protests as unfolding in two distinct phases. The initial phase, from December 28th, 2025, to January 7th, 2026, was described as largely peaceful, representing legitimate grievances expressed through demonstrations. The government responded by initiating dialogue with representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, business leaders, economic activists, traders, economists, and professionals, resulting in economic proposals and plans. Security forces during this period were unarmed, focused on maintaining order and minimizing violence, resulting in only injuries and no fatalities.

However, beginning January 8th, the situation dramatically changed. Araghchi asserts that “terrorist elements” infiltrated the protests, possessing weapons and actively targeting both security forces and demonstrators. This, he claims, was based on documented evidence, some of which would be publicly released. The objective of these elements, according to Araghchi, was to increase casualties to provoke US intervention, referencing US President’s statement about intervening if Iran fired on protestors.

II. Allegations of Foreign Interference & Terrorism

A central argument presented by Araghchi is the assertion of significant foreign interference, specifically implicating the United States and Israel. He alleges that these elements were “organized and trained” abroad and deployed to Iran with the explicit goal of escalating violence. He cites a tweet from former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo congratulating Iranians and “Mossad agents marching alongside them” as direct evidence of Israeli involvement.

The violence escalated to include acts Araghchi describes as reminiscent of ISIL, such as burying people alive, burning police officers alive, beheading them, and finishing off wounded individuals. He emphasizes that such acts are incompatible with Iranian culture and values, further reinforcing the claim of external instigation. He details the destruction of public and private property.

III. Justification for Internet Shutdown

Addressing criticism regarding the internet shutdown, Araghchi explained that it was implemented after the onset of terrorist operations, not before. He stated that the government had initially engaged in dialogue with protestors and invited representatives for meetings. The internet was cut off after intelligence revealed that orders were being issued from abroad to terrorist agents, instructing them to attack police and demonstrators. He frames this as a necessary security measure to disrupt terrorist communications and prevent further escalation, describing January 8th as the “13th day of the American Israeli war against us.” The shutdown lasted three days, during which time many “terrorist agents” were arrested and confessed to receiving payments for specific acts of violence (e.g., attacking police headquarters, setting vehicles on fire).

IV. Iran’s Security Policy & Distinction Between Protest and Terrorism

Araghchi clarified that Iran’s security policy differentiates between legitimate protest and terrorism. He stated that Iran consistently adopts a “soft policy” towards protests, tolerating and listening to demonstrators. However, when it comes to terrorism, the response is “decisive.” He emphasized that Iran will not tolerate terrorist groups, particularly those “managed from abroad and particularly Israel.” He contrasted this with an incident in the US where a woman was killed by police, noting the US President’s justification of “self-defense” and the Department of Homeland Security’s warning against attacking police. He argues that the events in Iran constitute a terrorist act, not a protest.

V. Negotiations with the US & Nuclear Program

Regarding potential negotiations with the US, Araghchi stated that communication with US envoy Rob Malley is ongoing, predating and continuing after the protests. He emphasized that Iran is not averse to negotiations but insists on fairness, mutual respect, and reciprocal benefit. He criticized the US’s history of negotiating in bad faith, citing the withdrawal from the nuclear agreement and the activation of the “snapback mechanism” during negotiations.

He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including enrichment, as a right under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. He stated that Iran does not seek nuclear weapons, citing a fatwa (religious decree) from the Supreme Leader prohibiting their development. He indicated that Iran is willing to address concerns and build confidence regarding its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. He stressed that negotiations must be based on a “process of just exchange” and that excessive demands will render negotiations impossible.

VI. Readiness for Conflict & Future Outlook

Araghchi asserted that Iran is prepared for any US action, including military intervention, and that its military readiness has increased since the “12-day war.” He expressed hope that the US will adopt a “wise approach” and resist pressure from those seeking to drag it into conflict. He concluded by stating that Iran is prepared for war, diplomacy, and economic options, and will take any measure to lift sanctions, but can also endure them if necessary. He expressed hope that “wisdom prevails.”

Conclusion

The interview paints a picture of Iran viewing the recent protests not as a spontaneous expression of popular discontent, but as a deliberate attempt by foreign powers – primarily the US and Israel – to destabilize the country. The government justifies its response, including the internet shutdown, as a necessary measure to counter terrorism and prevent foreign intervention. While remaining open to negotiations with the US, Iran insists on a framework based on mutual respect and fairness, rejecting preconditions and threats. The interview underscores Iran’s firm stance on its nuclear program and its preparedness to confront any escalation of conflict.