According to the New York Times, which cites two anonymous Iranian sources, the meeting between the billionaire and Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani last Monday lasted more than an hour.
Elon Musk, participates in a symposium on ” antissemitismo=”” online=”” durante=”” a=”” confer=”” da=”” associa=”” judaica=”” europeia=”” em=”” crac=”” de=”” janeiro=”” id=”zoom-img”/>
(FILES) an investigation by Elon Musk on April 7, 2024, after the tycoon had criticized the magistrate, accusing him of censorship for blocking accounts suspected of spreading disinformation. In an order seen by AFP, judge Alexandre de Moraes accused the owner of X, formerly Twitter, of “criminal exploitation of X”.
OR Iran this Saturday (16) he “categorically” denied any meeting between his ambassador in HIM and the American businessman Elon Musk and expressed “surprise” at the media coverage of the issue. The New York Times reported that Musk, a close ally of the US president-elect USA, Donald Trumpmet with the Iranian ambassador to the United Nations on Monday to “ease tensions” between Tehran and his country. According to the American newspaper, which cites two anonymous Iranian sources, the meeting between the billionaire and ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani lasted more than an hour last Monday in New York.
“Iran categorically denies any such meeting and expresses its surprise at the American press coverage,” state agency IRNA reported, citing Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei. The United States and Iran, once close allies, severed diplomatic relations in 1980, shortly after the Islamic revolution that overthrew the Washington-backed Pahlavi dynasty.
Follow the Jovem Pan News channel and receive the main news on your WhatsApp!
During his first term (2017-2021), Donald Trump promoted a policy called “maximum pressure” against Iran and reimposed strong sanctions against Tehran, measures maintained by Joe Biden’s government. Iranian newspapers, published before Tehran’s denial, were divided this Saturday on the meeting – using expressions such as “secret meeting”, “new diplomatic channel” or “betrayal” – and asked “not to exaggerate” the importance of the possible meeting.
Published by Luisa Cardoso
*With information provided by Estadão Conteúdo
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Expert on U.S.-Iran Relations
Time.news Editor: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent revelations surrounding Elon Musk’s alleged meeting with Iranian Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani. With the backdrop of rising tensions and political dynamics, this seems like a significant event. What are your initial thoughts on the reported meeting?
Expert: Thank you for having me. This meeting, if true, highlights a complex intersection between business, diplomacy, and international relations. Elon Musk isn’t just a billionaire; he’s a prominent figure in American culture and technology. His interaction with an Iranian official could symbolize a unique approach to diplomacy, especially in troubled waters that often characterize U.S.-Iran relations.
Time.news Editor: The New York Times cited anonymous Iranian sources saying the meeting lasted over an hour and aimed to “ease tensions.” However, Iran has categorically denied that such a meeting took place. How do you interpret this denial amidst what seems like conflicting narratives?
Expert: It’s quite telling. Iran’s denial was swift and strong, indicating that the regime may not want to legitimize any discussion or perception of outreach—especially from a figure like Musk who is closely tied to U.S. leadership. It’s possible that they see any engagement as a potential diplomatic threat or as undermining their current political posture. The media amplification surrounding the alleged meeting may also be a concern for them.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating how media narratives can shape political perceptions. Given Musk’s influence and his recent comments about censorship and disinformation, do you think his interest in engaging with foreign powers is part of a larger strategy?
Expert: Absolutely. Musk has positioned himself as a disruptor, not just in technology but in societal narratives as well. His venture into diplomacy— if indeed it occurred—could be viewed as an extension of his brand, leveraging his platform and influence to foster dialogue, even if it’s unofficial. It’s an unconventional approach, but in the age of social media and global connectivity, it may resonate with audiences that are fatigued by traditional diplomatic protocols.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned “unconventional.” In your opinion, does Musk’s potential role as an informal diplomat risk undermining formal channels of communication between nations?
Expert: That’s a valid concern. While informal channels can open dialogue and foster connections, they can also muddy the waters of official diplomacy. If influential figures like Musk step into these roles, they might inadvertently sidestep essential diplomatic norms or create misconceptions about their influence over policy decisions. The challenge lies in finding a balance where such engagements can be constructive rather than counterproductive.
Time.news Editor: What are the broader implications for U.S.-Iran relations if such meetings were to continue, regardless of Musk’s role?
Expert: Engaging with figures outside of the formal diplomatic sphere can lead to new discourse, but it also presents risks of miscommunication and misunderstanding. If meetings between U.S. figures and Iranian officials were to become more common, we could see a shifting dynamic that either facilitates dialogue and peace or heightens tensions if either side misinterprets intentions. It’s a double-edged sword that requires careful navigation.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for those insights. It’s clear that this meeting—or the denial of it—opens up a Pandora’s box of questions about diplomacy in the modern age. We’ll certainly be keeping a close eye on how this saga develops. Thank you for your time today!
Expert: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this critical topic. I look forward to seeing how these developments unfold.