Iran Slams PGCC for Controversial Statement on Disputed Persian Gulf Islands

In a recent statement, Iranian official Baghaei emphasized that the islands in the Persian Gulf are an “inseparable part of Iran’s territorial integrity.” This assertion comes amid ongoing territorial disputes, particularly with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has historically claimed these islands. Baghaei’s remarks highlight Iran’s stance on maintaining its territorial rights and the importance of respecting national sovereignty.

According to Press TV, Baghaei stated that Iran has maintained “effective, continuous and undisputed” sovereignty over the three islands—Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb—for centuries. He argued that repetitive claims do not alter the “geographical and historical realities” nor do they confer any legal rights to the claimants. This statement underscores Iran’s commitment to its territorial claims, asserting that these islands have a long-standing historical connection to the nation.

Baghaei further reiterated Iran’s commitment to good neighborliness and regional cooperation, urging the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC) to refrain from taking provocative stances that could jeopardize friendly relations. He highlighted the importance of diplomatic dialogue in resolving disputes and maintaining stability in the region.

• The islands of Abu Musa and Greater and Lesser Tunbs: Historically recognized as part of Iran, with substantial support from various historical, legal, and geographical documents.
• British control and restoration of sovereignty: The islands were under British control starting in 1921 but saw a restoration of Iranian sovereignty on November 30, 1971, shortly before the UAE’s official formation.

Moreover, Baghaei addressed claims made by Kuwait regarding the Arash gas field. He dismissed these unilateral assertions, stating that they “create no legal rights” for Kuwait. He emphasized the need for bilateral dialogue and cooperative efforts to achieve a fair and lasting agreement regarding the gas field, which is of mutual interest to both nations.

Iran asserts that it possesses clear rights to a share of the Arash gas field, a resource that lies within a joint offshore reservoir claimed by both Iran and Kuwait. Historical records indicate a long-standing recognition of each country’s stake in this resource, with nearly 40% of the field located within Iranian waters. Iranian officials argue that unilateral actions by Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, including a 2022 agreement to jointly develop the field, lack legal legitimacy due to the absence of formally demarcated maritime boundaries among the three countries.

Tehran has consistently rejected PGCC statements that assert exclusive Saudi-Kuwaiti ownership of the Arash gas field, calling such claims baseless and contrary to established historical negotiations. Iran maintains that these declarations cannot negate its legal rights to the field, emphasizing that only through a trilateral border demarcation and a cooperative development plan can the respective shares of each party be determined.

• Key Points of Iran’s Territorial Claims:
  1. Historical sovereignty over the islands for centuries.
  2. Restoration of sovereignty in 1971 following British withdrawal.
  3. Emphasis on bilateral dialogue for resolution of disputes.
• Iran’s Position on the Arash Gas Field:
  1. Claims a significant portion of the field lies within its waters.
  2. Calls for a trilateral demarcation to clarify rights.
  3. Rejects unilateral claims from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

In conclusion, Iran’s stance on the territorial integrity of its islands and resources in the Persian Gulf reflects a commitment to preserving its national interests while advocating for regional cooperation. The ongoing dialogue and diplomatic efforts will play a crucial role in addressing these disputes and fostering a peaceful resolution among neighboring countries.