Iran said it is fully prepared for a military confrontation to defend its interests, while insisting that dialogue and regional stability remain its preferred path amid heightened regional tensions and speculation about possible US action.
Government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani said during a press conference on Tuesday that foreign media reports suggesting an imminent US attack on Iran have fuelled anxiety among the public, according to Sanad News Agency.
Mohajerani said Iran is accustomed to threats and has previously faced and overcome what she described as multifaceted wars. She stressed, however, that Tehran continues to favour diplomacy and stability.
Addressing the recent protests, the spokeswoman said the government mourns all those killed during the unrest, noting that the death toll has exceeded 3,000. She described the figure as significant and referred to what she said were violent attacks targeting security forces.
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Mohajerani said the government believes it can overcome the current situation by strengthening communication with citizens and responding to their legitimate demands. She added that authorities have adopted a new approach towards the demonstrations, including holding meetings with leaders of peaceful protests and taking measures involving university officials.
She said investigations into violent incidents linked to the unrest are still underway, and that results will be published in the coming days.
On restrictions imposed on internet access, Mohajerani said such decisions fall under the authority of the Supreme National Security Council when direct threats emerge. She added that President Masoud Pezeshkian supports expanding internet access, but argued that current circumstances require temporary measures.
She noted that some commercial sectors have been granted limited internet access, unlike the general public.
Her remarks come amid reports of a US aircraft carrier and accompanying destroyers arriving in the Indian Ocean as part of wider military movements in the region.
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