British Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat has issued a stark warning about Iran’s current political trajectory, suggesting the country’s ruling clerics could be preparing for “two outcomes” amid ongoing protests across the country.

Axar.az reports that in a post shared on social media platform X on Tuesday, Tugendhat wrote that “Iran’s ayatollahs may be preparing for two outcomes — to fight and to run,” drawing attention to how Tehran appears to be positioning itself in the face of mounting pressure both internally and internationally.

Analysts say his latest remarks reflect growing unease among Western lawmakers about the unpredictability of Iran’s strategic choices, especially following years of sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and tensions with the United States and its allies.

Tugendhat’s intervention comes as global powers grapple with how best to respond to Tehran’s nuclear and missile ambitions and its influence across the region — issues that remain at the forefront of international diplomacy ahead of key negotiations later this year.

Iran’s ayatollahs may be preparing for two outcomes - to fight and to run.

I asked @FCDOGovUK minister @HFalconerMP about reports we’re hearing, you can hear his response here. pic.twitter.com/M86Mr1J8g7

— Tom Tugendhat (@TomTugendhat) January 6, 2026