Elon Musk met with Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, on November 11 in New York. According to Iranian sources, the meeting aimed to explore ways to reduce longstanding tensions between the United States and Iran.
This meeting, reported by the New York Times, signals a potential shift in tone between the two nations under Trump’s returning administration.
The meeting reportedly lasted over an hour and took place at a secret location. Two Iranian officials, who spoke anonymously, described the discussion as “positive” and a source of “good news.” The Iranian mission to the United Nations declined to comment, while Musk, known for his influential role in Trump’s transition team, did not respond to media inquiries regarding the encounter.
Karoline Leavitt, spokeswoman for the Trump-Vance transition team, reiterated the administration’s stance on diplomacy through strength: “The American people re-elected President Trump because they trust him to lead our country and restore peace through strength around the world. When he returns to the White House, he will take the necessary action to do just that.”
During Trump’s first term, his administration adopted a “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran, withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear agreement and imposing harsh economic sanctions. Trump also approved the targeted assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, which led Iran to vow retaliation. Despite the tense history, Iranian officials now appear to be discussing a potential “new and more lasting deal” with Trump, recognizing his penchant for striking deals.
According to Iranian sources, it was Musk himself who requested the meeting, with Iravani choosing the secret location. The discussion offered Iran a unique diplomatic channel through Musk, potentially avoiding a direct meeting with U.S. government officials.
Musk, who will soon serve as co-director of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), represents Trump’s continued strategy of bringing unconventional figures into his administration to secure American interests abroad.
One Iranian Foreign Ministry official revealed that Iravani encouraged Musk to seek exemptions from U.S. sanctions on Iran and to consider introducing some of Musk’s businesses to Tehran.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi took to platform X, stating, “Differences can be resolved through cooperation and dialogue. We agreed to proceed with courage and goodwill. Iran has never left the negotiation table on its peaceful nuclear programme.” His comments followed a meeting with UN atomic watchdog head Rafael Grossi, further underscoring Iran’s diplomatic intentions.
Analysts suggest that despite Trump’s history of economic and military pressure on Iran, he may be interested in establishing a new path forward. “Overall, everything is possible with Trump,” noted Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group, highlighting Trump’s unique approach to diplomacy and deal-making.
For now, the meeting with Musk has raised cautious optimism, with both sides appearing to leave the door open for further dialogue—if conditions align.