Iran Summons Chinese Envoy Over UAE Joint Statement on Gulf Islands

Iran’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Chinese ambassador to Tehran in a diplomatic move expressing “strong dissatisfaction” with a joint statement issued by China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries regarding three disputed islands in the Persian Gulf. This action, occurring late Saturday, underscores Iran’s firm stance on the issue and its determination to safeguard its territorial integrity.

Released during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Saudi Arabia, the joint statement outlined a strategic cooperation plan between China and the GCC countries. Among the topics addressed was the UAE’s demand for the resolution of the long-standing dispute over the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa in the Persian Gulf region. The statement called for the resolution of the dispute through negotiations between Iran and the UAE under the framework of international law.

Promptly dismissing the statement, Iran’s Foreign Ministry asserted that the islands are an “integral part” of Iran’s territory and have never been subject to negotiation with any country. This response highlights Iran’s unwavering commitment to its sovereignty over the disputed islands and its rejection of external intervention in the matter.

In response to Iran’s protest, China’s ambassador emphasized that President Xi’s visit to Saudi Arabia aimed to “help peace and stability” in the region. This assertion suggests China’s desire to maintain diplomatic relations with both Iran and the GCC countries while promoting stability in the volatile Persian Gulf region.

The dispute over the islands predates the 1979 Iranian Revolution and has been a longstanding source of contention between Iran and the UAE. The islands’ strategic location near the vital Strait of Hormuz adds complexity to the dispute, as control over these territories could impact maritime trade routes in the region.

At the 76th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2021, representatives of Iran and the UAE engaged in a verbal confrontation over the islands. The UAE reiterated its demand for the islands’ return, while Iran affirmed its sovereignty over them. Despite diplomatic tensions, Iran has expressed readiness for bilateral dialogue to address misunderstandings over the contested territories.

Recent statements from both Iran and the GCC reaffirm the ongoing disagreement over the islands’ sovereignty. While the UAE insists on its rightful ownership, Iran remains steadfast in its claim to the territories.

The return of the UAE ambassador to Iran in late August, after a six-year hiatus in diplomatic relations, signaled a potential thaw in bilateral ties. However, the dispute over the islands remains a significant obstacle to achieving lasting reconciliation between the two countries.

Overall, Iran’s protest against the China-GCC statement underscores the complexity of regional dynamics in the Persian Gulf and highlights the enduring nature of territorial disputes in the area. As tensions persist, diplomatic efforts to address the dispute and promote stability in the region remain paramount for all parties involved.