Iran sought a meeting with Elon Musk in an apparent effort to ease tensions with President-elect Donald Trump. The meeting took place in New York and covered various topics, including Iran's nuclear program, support for anti-Israel groups, and prospects for improved relations with the United States. No immediate decisions were made during the meeting.
The Trump transition team did not confirm or deny the meeting. Iran's U.N. mission declined to comment on the matter. This outreach from Iran comes as Trump announces key foreign policy picks who are expected to take a tough stance on Iran.
Intelligence officials have noted Iran's opposition to Trump's second term, viewing him as likely to escalate tensions. Trump's administration has taken actions such as ending the nuclear deal, imposing sanctions, and ordering the killing of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.
The Justice Department recently revealed an Iranian murder-for-hire plot targeting Trump, which Iran denied. Iran has also reportedly assured the Biden administration that it would not attempt to kill Trump, responding to a warning that such an act would be considered an act of war.
Iran's U.N. mission stated that it does not issue public statements about official messages exchanged between countries. The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterated its commitment to pursuing legal avenues regarding Soleimani's assassination while adhering to international law.
Despite Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's criticism of Trump, Iran's new reformist president has expressed openness to talks with Trump to seek relief from international sanctions.
