Iranian Foreign Minister: "Trump to Blame for Bloodshed... Ready for Both War and Dialogue"

"A Pretext for U.S. Intervention"
Response to President Trump's Comments on 'Intervention' the Previous Day

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed on January 15 (local time) that the protests against his country's economic difficulties are the responsibility of U.S. President Donald Trump.

AP Yonhap News

According to Al Jazeera, a broadcaster in the Arab world, Minister Araghchi met with diplomats stationed in Tehran, Iran, on the same day and stated, "The protests have turned into violent and bloody incidents in order to provide a pretext for possible U.S. military intervention."

He pointed out that President Trump’s repeated mentions of possible intervention in the Iranian situation are a calculated attempt to provoke attacks by 'terrorists', and stated, "We are preparing for war, but we are also ready for dialogue."

Minister Araghchi particularly noted that video evidence has been secured showing weapons being distributed to the protesters, and that the authorities will soon release the confessions of those who have been arrested.

He added that although violence surged over the weekend, "the current situation is completely under control."

Minister Araghchi’s remarks can be interpreted as the Iranian government’s official message in response to President Trump’s comments about 'intervention'.

The previous day, President Trump said regarding the situation in Iran, "We are taking this matter very seriously, and the military is also looking into it," adding, "We are considering several strong options and will make a decision."

He also mentioned, "Iranian leaders called yesterday," indicating that "they want negotiations," thus leaving the door open for dialogue.