President Donald Trump announced aboard Air Force One that Iranian leaders contacted him seeking negotiations, signaling the potential for high-level nuclear talks. Speaking in a video statement, Trump confirmed that a meeting is being arranged but emphasized that the United States may act before talks occur due to escalating threats and Iran’s domestic instability.

“Their leaders called me yesterday and they want to negotiate… a meeting is being set up, but we may have to act because of what’s happening, before the meeting,” Trump said, underlining that the U.S. continues to monitor the situation closely and will prioritize American and allied security.

The outreach comes amid unprecedented domestic unrest in Iran. Since late December 2025, protests have erupted across all 31 provinces, fueled by economic collapse, political repression, and demands for secular governance. Human rights monitors report over 500 deaths from live ammunition, more than 10,000 arrests, and an 86-hour nationwide internet blackout intended to suppress global awareness of the uprising.

Trump’s statement reflects a dual strategy: maintaining the option for diplomacy while signaling that the United States will not tolerate continued aggression or threats, whether from Iran’s nuclear program or from actions endangering civilians. Analysts note that the president’s approach is consistent with longstanding U.S. policy under his administration, balancing deterrence with the opportunity for negotiations when adversaries show willingness to engage.

Officials in Washington are reportedly preparing contingencies in case the talks do not proceed or fail to achieve meaningful progress. Meanwhile, Israel and regional allies continue to coordinate with the U.S., emphasizing the need for clear red lines and robust intelligence to prevent escalation while supporting the Iranian people’s struggle for freedom.

The potential negotiations represent the first direct Iranian overture to the Trump administration amid a period of intense unrest and mounting international scrutiny. Trump’s remarks signal that while diplomacy is possible, action remains on the table to protect American interests and ensure that any nuclear engagement is conditioned on verifiable compliance.