BRICS Summit Facilitates Diplomatic Efforts Between Iran and UAE Over Territorial Disputes

At the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and UAE’s Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan (MbZ) engaged in a notable meeting aimed at reducing tensions over the contested islands of Abu Musa and Greater and Lesser Tunbs. Their discussions addressed broader regional conflicts, including those in Gaza and Lebanon, amidst growing concerns regarding normalization ties between the UAE and Israel.

During the recent BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, a significant diplomatic encounter occurred as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan (MbZ), the leader of the United Arab Emirates, and Iran’s newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian met for the first time. This meeting aimed to alleviate rising tensions between the two nations, particularly concerning the three disputed islands in the Persian Gulf: Abu Musa and Greater and Lesser Tunbs, which Iran seized in 1971 amid the British withdrawal from the region. The two leaders engaged in discussions surrounding pivotal issues affecting West Asia, including the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. The official statement from the Iranian president’s office highlighted the importance of resolving recent tensions, especially after the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council released a statement pushing for Iran to cease its claim over the occupied islands. Iranian officials reiterated Tehran’s steadfast position regarding its sovereignty over these territories, asserting, “We do not miss any opportunity to clarify and firmly defend the positions and interests of the Islamic Republic, especially regarding the three islands of the Persian Gulf.” Furthermore, the meeting also illuminated the concerns stemming from the UAE’s normalization agreements, particularly the Abraham Accords with Israel, which have generated anxieties in Iran amidst expected Israeli military actions. Both leaders underscored the necessity for an immediate halt to assaults by Israel on Gaza and Lebanon, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also participating in discussions alongside UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, emphasizing shared concerns about regional stability.

The tensions between Iran and the UAE over the three Persian Gulf islands have a historical context dating back to the 1970s when Iran took control during the British military withdrawal from the region. The islands are strategically located near the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil shipments. Recent escalations in the region, particularly those stemming from the Gaza conflict and Israel’s military engagements, have compounded these long-standing territorial disputes. The normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel under the Abraham Accords has also led to heightened friction with Iran, which supports factions opposed to Israel’s actions in the region.

In summary, the inaugural meeting between President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran and UAE leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan represents a critical step towards easing hostilities over disputed territorial claims. The discussions highlighted mutual concerns regarding the implications of ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. While expressions of goodwill were evident, underlying tensions relating to territorial sovereignty and regional security remain pertinent. Both nations appear eager to navigate these complexities through continued dialogue.

Original Source: www.newarab.com