Iran’s sovereignty over Persian Gulf isles ‘self-evident’, requires no proof
By Mansour Shokrollahi
Legal Expert
The Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) recently revived its old claims over Iran’s three Persian Gulf islands, alleging once again that Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa belong to the United Arab Emirates.
However, such allegations are purely political and lack any legal foundation. The European Union’s alignment with these baseless claims is equally unacceptable and amounts to interference in the internal affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Under the principles and norms of international law, no country or organization has the right to meddle in the domestic jurisdiction of an independent state.
Historical documents dating back centuries clearly show that the three islands have always been part of Iran, with no other country exercising sovereignty over them. In fact, at a time when many of contemporary Persian Gulf states had yet to come into political existence — and long before global powers such as the United States had even emerged — the islands were under Iranian rule.
It is therefore inconceivable that a country established only decades ago could now lay claim to territories that have been under Iran’s sovereignty for centuries.
Furthermore, all international legal records and documents affirm Iran’s ownership of the islands. Still, some believe that by floating such unfounded allegations and relying on European backing, they can push through their false claims. But that is far from reality. Iran’s sovereignty over these islands is so self-evident that it hardly requires proof.
They may have concluded, given the current regional and international circumstances, that this is a convenient moment to bring up their old claims, counting on Western support. Yet, they must understand that Iran will stand firm and vigorously defend its legitimate rights. When it comes to issues of territorial integrity, Iran does not take things lightly.
Moreover, the nation’s resolve and authority in defending its territorial integrity go far beyond its military might. The Iranian people, themselves, are the true bulwark against any external overreach. United and steadfast, they are fully capable of shutting down any hostile rhetoric with a firm and decisive response if necessary.
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