Iran says report of special envoy meeting with billionaire Musk is 'fabricated'

(CLO) On November 16, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi strongly denied information about the meeting between Iran's ambassador to the United Nations and American billionaire Elon Musk.

In an interview on state television, Mr. Araqchi also warned that Iran was ready to "confront or cooperate" in the dispute with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Western countries related to the nuclear program.

Speaking on television, Mr. Araqchi called this "a fabricated story from the American media." Earlier, The New York Times reported that billionaire Elon Musk, an advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump, met with Iran's representative at the United Nations on November 13.

"In my opinion, this is a way for the US media to probe public opinion to consider the possibility of such moves," said Mr. Araqchi.

Tesla CEO and owner of social network X, Elon Musk. Photo: Reuters

The Iranian foreign minister stressed that now was not the right time for any such meeting, especially when the new US administration’s policies were still unclear. He also asserted that there was no permission from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for the meeting, stressing Khamenei’s decisive role in all national affairs.

Relations between Iran and the IAEA have become increasingly strained over a series of long-standing issues, including Iran blocking IAEA uranium enrichment experts and refusing to explain traces of uranium found at undeclared sites.

"Our nuclear path next year will be very sensitive and complicated. We are prepared for either confrontation or cooperation," Mr. Araqchi declared.

Iran's foreign minister also said the 2015 nuclear deal, which former US President Donald Trump withdrew from in 2018, was no longer valid.

"If negotiations start, the nuclear deal can be used as a reference point, but it no longer holds the same meaning as before. We need to reach a viable agreement," he said.

Iran's message comes amid heightened international tensions over its nuclear program. The Trump administration is expected to introduce new policies that could have a major impact on US-Iran relations and international agreements.

Cao Phong (according to Reuters, CNN)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/iran-noi-thong-tin-ve-cuoc-gap-giua-dac-phai-vien-va-ty-phu-musk-la-bia-dat-post321694.html