Iran slams Trump's proposal to alter Persian Gulf name

U.S. President Donald Trump's plans to alter the historically established name of the Persian Gulf are indicative of hostile intent toward Iran and its people, and are firmly condemned, said Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Araghchi argued on X that the name Persian Gulf, like many geographical designations, is deeply rooted in human history, Caliber.Az reports.

"Iran has never objected to the use of names such as the Sea of Oman, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, or Red Sea. The use of these names does not imply ownership by any particular nation, but rather reflects a shared respect for the collective heritage of humanity."

He continued, emphasizing the historical significance of the name: "In contrast, politically motivated attempts to alter the historically established name of the Persian Gulf are indicative of hostile intent toward Iran and its people, and are firmly condemned." According to Araghchi, such actions are "an affront to all Iranians, regardless of their background or place of residence."

Araghchi also expressed hope that the campaign surrounding the renaming is merely "a disinformation campaign by 'forever warriors' to anger Iranians all over the world and agitate them."

He concluded by reminding Trump of the enduring legacy of the name, stating, "I am confident that Donald Trump is aware that the name PERSIAN Gulf is centuries old and recognized by all cartographers and international bodies and was even used by all leaders of the region in their official communications until as recently as the 1960s."

Araghchi further reassured that any attempt to alter the name would be legally and geographically invalid. "While any short-sighted step in this connection will have no validity or legal or geographical effect, it will only bring the wrath of all Iranians from all walks of life and political persuasion in Iran, the U.S. and across the world."

As a reminder, Trump is reportedly set to announce that the United States will begin referring to the Persian Gulf as the “Arabian Gulf” or “Gulf of Arabia,” a move seen as a snub to Iran. Two administration officials told the Associated Press that Trump will announce a visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates next week.

The Persian Gulf, situated between eastern Saudi Arabia and the southwestern coast of Iran, has been known by its current name since the 16th century, although Arab nations have favoured Trump’s proposed terminology. Iran, however, has defended the sea’s historic name, even suing Google Maps in 2012 for omitting it.

Trump first raised the issue in 2017 by referring to it as the Gulf of Arabia, prompting Iran’s then-president Hassan Rouhani to suggest that Trump needed to “study geography angrily.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev