Iran's ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandjdeh, suggested that improved relations between Iran and the United States are possible if Washington prioritizes its own interests over those of Israel. Speaking at a World Cup fan expo in Mexico City, Pasandjdeh urged President Trump to focus on U.S. interests, stating that Iran and the U.S. could be 'very good friends' if the U.S. 'closes its eyes to Israel's interest'.
The comments come amid complex diplomatic negotiations, with former U.S. ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro noting a divergence between U.S. and Israeli objectives concerning Iran. While Israel aims to eliminate Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, the U.S. is primarily focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump asserted his control over any finalized deal with Tehran.
Pasandjdeh also framed Iran's participation in the World Cup as a message of peace, despite diplomatic tensions such as the U.S. reportedly refusing visas to some Iranian team staff. He emphasized that Iran has no issue with the American nation.