SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras – In a new overture to Iran, the Obama administration has authorized U.S. embassies around the world to invite Iranian officials to Independence Day parties they host on or around July 4th.
A State Department cable sent to all U.S. embassies and consulates late last week said that U.S. diplomats could ask their Iranian counterparts to attend the festivities, which generally feature speeches about American values, fireworks, and, of course, hot dogs and hamburgers.
The notice said the posts "may invite representatives from the government of Iran" to the events, a State Department official said Tuesday, quoting from the document. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an internal communication.
"This is very much in line with our policy of trying to engage the Iranian government," department spokesman Robert Wood told reporters in Washington. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton was in the Honduras Tuesday, attending a gathering of the Organization of American States.
American embassies overseas, like those of other countries on their national holidays, traditionally throw parties to celebrate the Independence Day holiday. Generally those invited include officials from the host government, diplomats from friendly countries and American expatriates.
LinkWhat happened the last time Iranians visited a US embassy? I wonder if they'll be permitted to bring their "fireworks"?
