The Iranian government has denied reports that tech billionaire Elon Musk met with Iran’s permanent representative to the UN, Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani, in New York.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei called the reports, first published by the New York Times and later the Associated Press, “categorically false.”
The New York Times had claimed the meeting was “positive,” discussing Iran’s nuclear program and hostilities with Israel, and suggested it was initiated by Iran.
The Associated Press added that the meeting occurred on Monday, with an unnamed U.S. official confirming the discussions.
The Trump transition team declined to comment on the reports, consistent with their policy on private meetings.
Since his election victory, President-elect Donald Trump has maintained a close advisory relationship with Musk, including involving him in international discussions, such as with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Trump also plans to pair Musk with Vivek Ramaswamy to lead a commission on government efficiency.
