Trump says Iran proposed negotiations as hundreds killed in protests

Story by  ANI | Posted by  Vidushi Gaur | Date 12-01-2026
US President Donald Trump
US President Donald Trump

 

Dubai

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that Iran has proposed negotiations following his warning of possible military action, even as the ongoing crackdown on protesters has reportedly left hundreds dead.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “The meeting is being set up, but we may have to act because of what's happening before the meeting. Iran called, they want to negotiate.” He provided no further details on the timing or format of the proposed talks.

Iran has not immediately responded to Trump’s statement. Previously, Iranian authorities have warned that US forces and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” if America acts to protect demonstrators.

According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, which monitors unrest in Iran, at least 544 people have been killed during the two-week protests, including 496 protesters and 48 security personnel, and more than 10,600 people detained. With internet and phone services largely shut down in Iran, independent verification of the figures remains difficult. The Iranian government has not released official casualty numbers.

Meanwhile, the semi-official Fars news agency began publicly calling out Iranian celebrities and cultural figures who expressed support for the protests, accusing them of inciting riots and failing to condemn vandalism or attacks on security personnel.

International reactions are emerging as well. Canada issued a statement expressing support for the protesters, saying, “The Iranian regime must halt its horrific repression and intimidation and respect the human rights of its citizens.”

Domestically, Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi claimed that “the situation has come under total control” during a briefing with foreign diplomats in Tehran, though no evidence was provided to substantiate the claim.

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The situation remains tense, with ongoing international concern over human rights abuses and the possibility of further escalation.