Iran’s government has firmly denied reports that its United Nations envoy met with U.S. technology billionaire Elon Musk in New York. On Saturday, Iran’s official news agency IRNA reported that Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei categorically refuted claims of such a meeting, expressing surprise at the American media’s coverage.
“We strongly deny any meeting between our UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani and Elon Musk,” Baghaei said in an interview with IRNA. “Such reports are baseless, and we are surprised by the level of misinformation being circulated.”
Earlier, The New York Times reported that Musk, who is an advisor to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, held a meeting with Ambassador Iravani on Monday. The newspaper cited anonymous Iranian sources who described the encounter as “positive.”
The alleged meeting sparked widespread speculation about potential back-channel communications between Tehran and Washington, particularly in the context of strained relations and ongoing discussions about Iran’s nuclear program.
Iran’s swift denial aims to quash rumors and prevent any misunderstanding about its diplomatic engagements. “We urge media outlets to verify their information and avoid spreading unfounded claims,” Baghaei added.
Musk, known for his roles as CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has not commented publicly on the reports.
(With input from agencies)
Reference(s):
Iran 'categorically' denies its UN envoy's meeting with Elon Musk
cgtn.com
