Iran Paad Statement on Iran's Sovereignty Over the Three Islands

The Three Iranian Islands in the Persian Gulf: Historical and Legal Ownership

The ownership of three strategic islands in the Persian Gulf — Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa — has long been a source of contention between Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While the UAE claims sovereignty over these islands, the historical and legal record firmly establishes Iran's rightful ownership. This statement outlines the history of these islands, dispels the claims made by the UAE, and sets out the clear basis for Iran's sovereignty over them.

1. Historical Background of the Islands

The history of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa dates back centuries, during which they have consistently been part of Persian/Iranian territory. Numerous historical maps, documents, and treaties show that these islands were under Iranian jurisdiction as far back as the Sassanid Empire (224–651 AD), and throughout the subsequent Islamic periods.

The strategic position of these islands, located near the Strait of Hormuz — a vital passageway for global oil shipments — has made them significant over time. Persian naval forces often patrolled these waters, and historical records from the Safavid, Afsharid, and Qajar dynasties consistently show that the islands were managed and governed by Iranian authorities.

2. Treaties and Colonial Interference

The territorial disputes over these islands only emerged during the 20th century, primarily due to colonial interference. During the 19th century, Britain established a protectorate over several Gulf Arab states, including what is now the UAE. British authorities, pursuing their own geopolitical interests in the region, at times influenced local borders. However, the British never established formal ownership of the islands on behalf of any Arab rulers; instead, they acknowledged Iran's long-standing presence and sovereignty.

One notable example is the Anglo-Persian Agreement of 1913, in which Britain recognized Iran's sovereignty over Abu Musa and the Tunb islands. After the withdrawal of British forces from the Persian Gulf in 1971, Iran immediately reasserted its control over the islands — a move consistent with the agreements made during the colonial era.

3. Legal Evidence of Iran's Ownership

The legal basis for Iran's ownership of the islands is firmly rooted in international law, which recognizes historical continuity, effective control, and established governance as key factors in determining sovereignty. Iran has maintained continuous control over Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa for centuries — an uninterrupted control that is a critical factor in legal sovereignty.

In 1971, when British forces left the Gulf, Iran formally reasserted its sovereignty over the islands. Both Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb were peacefully reintegrated into Iranian territory, while Iran and Sharjah (now part of the UAE) reached an agreement concerning Abu Musa allowing for joint administration without undermining Iranian sovereignty. This agreement, ratified by both parties, explicitly affirmed Iran's rights over the islands.

4. UAE Claims and Misinterpretations

The UAE's claims to the islands emerged only after it gained independence in 1971. These claims were based on supposed tribal connections, but lack the legal and historical backing that international law requires. Moreover, the UAE's interpretation of historical events often omits critical details, such as the recognition of Iranian sovereignty by colonial powers and the legal agreements made with the rulers of the emirates.

Iran has consistently stated that it is open to dialogue on the matter, but firmly rejects any suggestion that its sovereignty over the islands is negotiable. The UAE's claims, never raised before its independence, have no standing in international law.

5. International Recognition and Current Status

The international community has largely refrained from taking sides in the dispute, recognizing the complexities of historical territorial claims in the region. However, the facts support Iran's legal standing. The United Nations, while promoting peaceful dialogue, has not recognized the UAE's claims as valid under international law. Iran continues to exercise control over the islands, managing their defense, infrastructure, and development, further reinforcing its effective governance.

In recent decades, Iran has invested in the infrastructure and security of the islands, building installations, improving local facilities, and maintaining a presence that underscores its sovereignty — actions that further solidify Iran's position under the principle of effective occupation in international law.

Conclusion

The islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa are historically and legally part of Iran. The UAE's claims, which only surfaced in the modern era after its independence, lack the historical and legal foundations necessary to challenge Iranian sovereignty. Iran's uninterrupted control, reinforced by historical treaties and international legal principles, affirms its ownership of these islands. While the Persian Gulf remains a region of strategic importance, Iran's sovereignty over these three islands remains an undisputed fact based on centuries of history and law.