Iran Designates National Day to Commemorate Reassertion of Sovereignty Over Persian Gulf Trio Islands
Tehran, The Gulf Observer: The Iranian government has officially designated the anniversary of the British withdrawal from Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb as the Persian Gulf Trio Islands National Day, underscoring the country’s historical and legal sovereignty over the three islands.
According to the decision, the day will be observed annually on the 9th of Azar — the ninth month of the Iranian solar calendar — which corresponds to November 30 or December 1 in the Gregorian calendar.
The islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb, located strategically in the Persian Gulf between mainland Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have long been recognized as integral parts of Iranian territory. Their historical affiliation with Iran is documented in numerous legal, historical, and geographical records, both within the country and internationally.
Despite this, the UAE has periodically disputed Iran’s sovereignty over the islands. In response, Iranian officials have consistently reaffirmed that the islands are an inseparable part of Iran’s territorial integrity and have urged the UAE to refrain from actions or statements that could negatively affect bilateral relations.
The origins of the sovereignty issue trace back to the early 20th century, during the decline of the Qajar dynasty and the expansion of British influence in the Persian Gulf. Britain began asserting control over the islands in 1904, starting with Abu Musa, and later extended its control to the Greater and Lesser Tunbs in 1921.
For nearly five decades, the British government delegated administrative control to the sheikhs of Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah, who operated under British protection. Despite ongoing diplomatic discussions between Tehran and London over the islands’ status, no resolution was achieved during that period.
On November 30, 1971, shortly before the establishment of the United Arab Emirates and following the withdrawal of British forces from the region, Iran lawfully reasserted its sovereignty over Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb.
The establishment of the Persian Gulf Trio Islands National Day serves as a reaffirmation of Iran’s enduring position that these islands are an inseparable part of its national territory and a reminder of the country’s historical continuity and sovereignty in the Persian Gulf region.
