Donald Trump is reportedly set to announce plans to rename another major region. It contritubed tohis history of contentious territorial disputes.
The US President has previously stirred controversy with his decisions, and this new move seems to be no different.
Trump’s plan to rename Gulf of Persia sparks tensions
Two US officials have revealed that Trump is expected to announce a shift in the way the US refers to the Persian Gulf.
Instead of continuing to call it the Persian Gulf, sources claim he will push for the Gulf of Arabia or Arabian Gulf to be used.
This proposed move could inflame already strained relations.
Iran, in particular, views such changes as politically motivated and disrespectful.
The historu of the Persian Gulf
The Persian Gulf has been referred to by this name for centuries, dating back to the 16th century.
However, some Arab nations prefer calling it the Arabian Gulf.
It created a longstanding dispute over the body of water’s name.
When Google Maps failed to label the body of water correctly in 2012, Iran filed a lawsuit, underlining the intensity of the conflict.
Should Trump proceed with his announcement, it could cause a major diplomatic crisis.
An Iranian diplomat stated that such a move would unite all Iranians, regardless of political persuasion, against the US.
Additionally, the Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, condemned the proposall.
He emphasized the deep historical and cultural significance of the Persian Gulf.
“Iran has never objected to the use of names such as the Sea of Oman, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea or Red Sea. 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. Such biased actions are an affront to all Iranians, regardless of their background or place of residence,” he continued.
“Any shortsighted 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 US and across the world.” He added,
Trump’s previous remarks on the Gurf
Trump’s previous reference to the Persian Gulf as the Gulf of Arabia*during his first term sparked similar backlash.
Additionally, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani even advised Trump to “study geography,” while Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif criticized Trump’s actions.
These comments highlight the political and cultural sensitivity surrounding the region’s name.
Trump’s persistent push to rename global regions continues to stoke international tensions.
The proposed change to the Persian Gulf’s name could further damage US-Iran relations. It caused diplomatic fallout across the region.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether Trump will move forward with his renaming initiative or face continued backlash.