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UAE will destabilize region with claims on Persian Gulf three islands: Leader’s advisor

Friday, 15 September 2023 6:43 AM [ Last Update: Friday, 15 September 2023 6:43 AM ]

This file picture shows an aerial view of Iran’s Abu Musa Island in the Persian Gulf.

A top advisor to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has cautioned that the United Arab Emirates’ claims of ownership over the three islands of Abu Musa, the Greater Tunb, and the Lesser Tunb in the Persian Gulf will “destabilize the region’s security.”

Ali Akbar Velayati made the remarks in an interview with Qatar's Al Jazeera on Thursday, emphasizing that the three islands have historically been part of Iran, and are an integral part of the Iranian territory.

“The UAE’s claims regarding the three islands have created problems between two neighboring countries,” Velayati said. “We will not allow any false claims regarding the Persian Gulf to become a reality.”

“Repeated claims by the UAE about the three islands will destabilize the region’s security,” he added.

The veteran Iranian diplomat also pointed out that Tehran does not want conflict with neighboring countries, and “is keen on peace without compromising on the integrity of its lands.”

Explainer: The past, present, and future of three strategic Persian Gulf islands

Iran has made it clear it will never give up its legitimate right to the islands, regardless of repetitive claims, vaguely worded statements, lobbying efforts, or even potential military threats.

He said countries in the region have “no alternative” other than to strengthen relations and settle differences.

“We’re convinced of the need to establish regional security and are ready to implement this with neighboring states,” Velayati noted.

The three Persian Gulf islands of Abu Musa, the Greater and Lesser Tunbs have historically been part of Iran, proof of which can be found and corroborated by countless historical, legal, and geographical documents in Iran and other parts of the world. However, the United Arab Emirates has repeatedly laid claim to the islands.

The islands fell under British control in 1921 but on November 30, 1971, a day after British forces left the region and just two days before the UAE was to become an official federation, Iran’s sovereignty over the islands was restored.

Iran has also responded to joint statements that some Arab organizations issue to support UAE's claim. Tehran summoned the Russian ambassador in July over a joint statement by Moscow and the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) about the three islands.

Iran pulls no punches over its territorial integrity: Amir-Abdollahian on Persian Gulf islands

The Iranian FM has blasted a recent joint statement by the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Russian Federation about the three Persian Gulf islands of Abu Musa, the Greater and Lesser Tunbs.

One of the latest reactions was on September 7 as the spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry roundly dismissed a joint statement from the ministerial meeting of Arab-Japan Political Dialogue about the islands, stressing that the trio are an eternal part of the Iranian territory.

Nasser Kan’ani said at the time that the statement lacked any political or legal value, and violated the principle of non-interference in domestic affairs of countries and respect for their territorial integrity.

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