ALWAGHT- Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson rejected the Arab League’s recent statement on the Persian Gulf islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb as “unacceptable,” underlining that these islands are a vital part of Iran’s sovereign land.
Iranian diplomat Esmaeil Baghaei strongly rejected the Arab League’s claims in their final communiqué supporting the UAE’s sovereignty over the three Persian Gulf islands—Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb—which have been administered by Iran since 1971. He described the Arab League’s stance as “unacceptable” and urged the organization to recognize established historical and geographical facts.
Baghaei emphasized that the islands are an integral part of Iran’s national territory, and any opposing claims contradict key principles of the United Nations Charter, including respect for territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and good neighborly relations. He called on the Arab League to promote mutual understanding and stronger ties among regional countries instead of raising contentious territorial issues.
Historically, the islands were under British control until 1921, but Iran regained sovereignty on November 30, 1971, shortly before the formation of the UAE federation. Despite Iran’s well-documented and internationally recognized claims, the UAE has repeatedly asserted its own claim over these strategically significant islands.
