"Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani accused the US of fuelling protests in the country, as he gave her briefing from Tehran on Tuesday. "Peaceful protests of my people were underway, and just as the negotiation table was bombed [by the US], this time our streets were 'bombed' and we witnessed the arrival of terrorist groups," she said. "Naturally, security forces intervened, and it is obvious that the people and the protesters separate themselves from the terrorists." She added that 'Iran's fate cannot be decided by any foreigner' and said it was prepared for both conflict and negotiations. "According to a statement made by the Foreign Minister [Abbas Araghchi], both issues of negotiation and war are on Iran’s agenda. However, Iran is ready to engage in negotiations with preconditions that are fair and not dictatorial," she said. Economic protests began in Tehran in December and spread to other cities. Iranian officials said they were working to address protesters 'justified' issues but also accused 'enemies' of the country of attempting to exploit them. US President Donald Trump was accused of escalating tensions and interfering, after he warned Iran he could intervene amid any potential crackdown. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei claimed some protesters were destroying property to 'please' the US president. Pro-government rallies were held across the country in support of state-led reforms and condemn the rioting."