Washington Signals Preference for Diplomacy Amid Escalating Iran Protests - Death Toll Nears 700

Washington, D.C. — January 12, 2026 — The White House reaffirmed Monday that diplomacy remains the "first option" for the United States in addressing the crisis in Iran, even as the reported death toll from the regime's crackdown on nationwide anti-government protests climbed to at least 698, according to human rights monitors.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the administration's position during interviews and briefings, stating that President Donald Trump is "keeping all options on the table" — including potential airstrikes — but prioritizes diplomatic channels. "Diplomacy is always the first option for the president," Leavitt told reporters, adding that Trump is "unafraid to use the lethal force and might of the United States military if and when he deems that necessary."

The statement comes amid growing international concern over the violent suppression of demonstrations that erupted in late December 2025, initially sparked by soaring inflation, a collapsing rial currency, and widespread economic hardship. What began as economic grievances in Tehran's historic bazaar quickly evolved into broad calls for an end to clerical rule, spreading to all 31 provinces.

Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) confirmed the latest figure of 698 deaths, including at least nine minors, warning that the true toll could be significantly higher — potentially exceeding 6,000 according to some estimates — due to a near-total nationwide internet and communications blackout imposed by authorities. The blackout has severely hampered independent verification, with reports of bodies lining up outside morgues in Tehran and chaotic scenes at hospitals.

The regime has not released an official casualty count and has instead organized mass pro-government rallies, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei describing them as a "warning to American politicians."

U.S. officials noted a discrepancy in messaging from Tehran: While public statements from Iranian leaders remain defiant, private communications suggest a desire for de-escalation. Iran's Foreign Minister reportedly engaged with a Trump envoy in efforts to reduce tensions, with Tehran insisting it is "not seeking war" but remains "prepared" to defend itself.

President Trump has repeatedly warned that the U.S. would intervene if the regime continues mass killings of protesters, describing the military as "locked and loaded." On Sunday, he indicated that Iranian officials had reached out to negotiate, adding that they appeared "tired of being beat up by the United States." In a separate move, Trump announced a 25% tariff on any country conducting business with Iran, further tightening economic pressure.

Over 10,600 arrests have been documented by groups like the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), which has tracked similar unrest in the past with relative accuracy.

The protests represent one of the most serious challenges to Iran's theocratic government since the 2022 Mahsa Amini uprising, occurring against the backdrop of recent U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in 2025 and ongoing regional tensions.

As the situation unfolds, the White House continues to monitor developments closely, balancing calls for restraint with readiness to act. International observers, including rights organizations, have urged immediate access to communications and an end to the violence, warning of a potential humanitarian catastrophe if the crackdown intensifies.

17GEN4.com