theguardian.com
Iran-UAE Island Dispute
Iran and the UAE clash over three strategic islands in the Strait of Hormuz, involving historical maps, EU condemnation, and regional alliances.
English
United Kingdom
International RelationsMiddle EastGeopoliticsUkHistoryTerritorial Dispute
European UnionGulf Cooperation CouncilUn Security CouncilWar OfficeRoyal Geographical Society
Marquess Of SalisburyShah Naser Al-Din Shah QajarHenry Drummond WolffGeorge CurzonAbbas AraghchiMohammad Bagher Ghalibaf
- What are the broader implications of this dispute?
- The dispute is highly sensitive within Iran and adds another roadblock to improving relations with the EU and Gulf states. Iran's efforts to build closer relations are hampered by this ongoing disagreement over territorial sovereignty, risking further damage to international partnerships.
- How has the EU's involvement escalated the situation?
- The EU's condemnation of Iran's 'occupation' of the islands, coupled with support from UN Security Council members, has significantly escalated the situation. Iran's response includes citing historical maps and rejecting third-party intervention, causing deep consternation within the Iranian regime.
- What is the historical role of Britain in the dispute?
- Britain played a significant role, occupying the islands in 1908 and brokering a complex agreement for Abu Musa's joint administration with Sharjah in 1971. However, Iran seized the Tunb islands upon Britain's withdrawal and later expelled Emiratis from Abu Musa, taking full control.
- What is the main point of contention in the dispute between Iran and the UAE?
- The dispute centers around three islands—Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb—located at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil tankers. Iran claims the islands have historically belonged to Persia, while the UAE asserts ownership based on the Qasimi dynasty's rule in Sharjah.
- What are the different responses from Iranian officials regarding the dispute?
- Abbas Araghchi, Iran's foreign minister, condemned the EU-GCC statement and has sought to build new alliances in the region, while parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf adopted a less diplomatic stance, criticizing the Gulf states for focusing on the territorial dispute rather than opposing Israel.