Why it matters:
This statement signals Iran’s willingness to maintain open channels for dialogue while firmly defending its territorial sovereignty in the Persian Gulf.
The big picture:
Iran's diplomacy navigates European engagement while safeguarding its sovereignty and regional interests, as demonstrated by its firm stance on the Persian Gulf islands.
What he’s saying:
In a telephone conversation with Dutch's top diplomat Caspar Veldkamp, Abbas Araghchi emphasized Iran’s openness to diplomatic interaction, stating that discussions must be rooted in “mutual respect and common interests.”
Veldkamp acknowledged the deep-rooted history of Dutch-Iranian relations and Iran’s role in regional affairs.
Regarding the three Iranian islands, three islands that are historically an integral part of Iranian territory, Veldkamp reiterated that the Netherlands sees the matter as a bilateral issue between Iran and the UAE, urging dialogue based on international law.
Key points:
- The conversation highlighted Iran’s strategic position in regional security and economic dynamics.
- Iran has made it clear that it will not compromise its sovereignty over the three Persian Gulf islands –Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb– which are strategically located near the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical oil chokepoint. However, the United Arab Emirates has repeatedly laid claim to the islands.
Go deeper:
Negotiation Under Coercion Is Meaningless: Iran Foreign Ministry Spokesman
Mojtaba Darabi
