Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi declared readiness for "serious and real negotiations" whilst stating that Tehran is prepared for war, state media reported on January 12.

Iran held nationwide pro-government rallies on January 12 to condemn the protests, with authorities blaming the US and Israeli regime for backing the unrest. Iran has maintained a near-total internet blackout since January 8.

"We are ready for negotiations, but fair negotiations with equal rights and mutual respect," Araqchi told foreign ambassadors gathered in Tehran. "We are not seeking war and we are ready for war."

Araqchi's comments came hours after US President Donald Trump said Iran had requested negotiations and that American officials might meet with them.

Esmaeil Baghaei, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, said at a press conference that the "communication channel" between Araqchi and Steve Witkoff, Trump's special envoy, remains "open" with messages exchanged whenever needed.

Araqchi said a "preemptive strike" is not on Iran's agenda, according to state media.

The Defence Council, a subset of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said earlier in a statement that "within the framework of legitimate defence, the Islamic Republic of Iran does not limit itself to reacting after action and considers objective signs of threat as part of the security equation."

The statements came as protests that began on December 29 entered their third week, with human rights organisations documenting at least 116 deaths through January 10. US and Israeli officials suggest the actual toll is significantly higher.

Trump has repeatedly voiced support for protesters and warned Washington could attack Iran if what he called "peaceful protesters" were harmed.

US officials told Axios on January 11 that Trump is considering several options for supporting protests in Iran, including potential military strikes, though most options presented at this stage are "not kinetic."