Archive · 13 Jan 2026
Iran-US Communication Amid Protests
Even though Iran and the United States don't have regular diplomatic relations, they have a special way to talk to each other.
The Iranian foreign minister and a special representative from the US president can send messages to each other when they need to.
Right now, there are big protests in Iran because people are upset about the economy and the government.
The US president has warned Iran not to use force against the protesters and has even threatened to take military action.
Despite this, the two countries are still talking to each other through this special channel.
The US has also said that countries trading with Iran will have to pay extra money when they do business with the US.
Iran and the US maintain an open communication channel despite lacking diplomatic relations, with messages exchanged between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.
The communication channel is used to facilitate dialogue and exchange of information, continuing before, during, and after the ongoing protests in Iran.
Protests in Iran, initially over economic hardship, have escalated into demands for regime change, with at least 646 deaths and over 10,700 arrests reported by rights group HRANA.
US President Donald Trump has threatened military action against Iran for its handling of the protests and imposed 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran.
Iran has warned of potential military retaliation if the US uses force to protect demonstrators, while also expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue with the US.
- Who
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff
- What
- Communication channel remains open between Iran and the US amid protests
- When
- Ongoing, with recent updates in January 2026
- Where
- Iran and the United States
- Why
- To facilitate dialogue and exchange of information despite the protests and tensions
- Countries Involved
- Iran, United States
- Communication Channel
- Open between Iranian Foreign Minister and US Special Envoy
- US Special Envoy
- Steve Witkoff
- Iranian Foreign Minister
- Abbas Araghchi
- Protest Death Toll
- At least 646 (as per HRANA)
- Protest Arrests
- Over 10,700
- US Tariffs on Iran's Trading Partners
- 25%
- Iran's Top Trading Partners
- China, Turkey, Iraq, UAE, India
Sources
Iran Foreign Ministry Says Communication Channel 'Open' With US Envoy
Iran Protests Live Updates: Tehran says ready for any US move including war
Iran restores limited phone access after protest blackout; internet and texts remain cut off
Iranian MP warns of greater unrest, urging government to address grievances
