Obama says it is up to the Iranians to accept the July 4 Invitations

Iranians must decide whether to participate fourth July celebration at U.S. embassies, President Obama said Tuesday linking the presence of the risk of warming between the two nations.

U.S. and Iran do not have formal diplomatic relations, but Obama said it is up to the Iranian diplomats to decide whether to use an invitation to attend the embassy as an opening festivities.

“I think we have said that if Iran chooses a path that follows international standards and principles, then we are interested in healing some of the wounds of 30 years in the form of US-Iranian relations. But it is a choice that the Iranians will have to do, “Obama said during a press conference in the White House briefing room.

Despite a crackdown on demonstrators from the Iranian government, Foreign Ministry spokesman Ian Kelley on Monday reiterated the invitation to Iranian diplomats to attend the Independence Day parties at American embassies around the world next month.

Kelly that no one will take back offers to Iranian officials to participate in the festivities, even if the Islamic Republic’s leader threatens violence against demonstrators in the home demonstrate against falsified presidential election results.

“There is no thought to withdraw the invitation to Iranian diplomats,” Kelly said. “We have made a strategic decision to engage in a number of fronts with Iran. And – and we have tried in many years of isolation, and we pursue a different path now.”

Late last month, the State Department encouraged officials at all U.S. embassies and consulates to their Iranian counterparts to participate in July 4 parties, which usually feature speeches about American values, fireworks, hot dogs and hamburgers.

The message said that the services “may invite representatives from the Government of Iran” to the events.

The move was among the administration’s ongoing efforts to persuade Iran in various locations, including formal diplomatic meetings over its nuclear program, violence in Iraq and the situation in Afghanistan.

But the decision “stunned” the ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee

“I am amazed that some think it is appropriate to U.S. officials that comingle with officials, representatives and agents of the Iranian regime, this Independence Day. What kind of message does this send to the Iranian people, who courageously stand up for equal rights and freedoms Americans celebrate this day? “asked Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Fla., an outspoken critic of Iran, Cuba and other despotic regimes.

“It is time for the U.S. to rescind that invitation and instead express our unwavering support for the Iranian people and their dreams and ideals. This Independence Day, we must stand with all who yearn to live free, instead of spending time with their oppressors” , she said.

It was not immediately clear how many embassies and consulates would invite Iranian diplomats to the July 4, or if any Iranians would accept the invitations.