Donald Trump reportedly plans to rename another gulf as part of his broader effort to reshape U.S. geographic names.
President Donald Trump is planning to rename another major body of water.
Reports say he wants to call the Persian Gulf by a different name. The new name he may announce is the “Arabian Gulf” or the “Gulf of Arabia.”
According to the Associated Press, two White House officials confirmed the plan.
Trump is expected to make the announcement during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia.
This trip will likely include talks with leaders in the region.
The Persian Gulf holds historical value for Iran
The name “Persian Gulf” is important to Iran. It reflects the country’s history as part of the Persian Empire.
Iran was known as Persia in many Western countries until 1935. Changing the name is seen as disrespectful by many Iranians.
The U.S. military has used the term “Arabian Gulf” for years. But most American civilians still say “Persian Gulf.”
Online maps show both names. Google Maps says “Persian Gulf (Arabian Gulf),” while Apple Maps only uses “Persian Gulf.”
Trump spoke about the name during his first term. He used “Arabian Gulf” while withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal.
This caused anger in Iran. Iranian leaders felt insulted and said it was a political move.
Iran responds strongly to Trump’s plan
Iran’s current foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, reacted to the latest news.
He said the name “Persian Gulf” is part of human history. Araghchi explained that names like the Red Sea and Arabian Sea do not show ownership.
But trying to change the Persian Gulf name is seen as an attack.
“The name Persian Gulf, like many geographical designations, is deeply rooted in human history.
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,” Araghchi wrote.
“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.
Iran warns of possible consequences
Araghchi warned Trump not to move forward with the plan. He said the name change has no legal effect but would anger many people.
According to him, Iranians everywhere will be upset by the action, no matter where they live or what they believe politically.
“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.”
Trump has a history of name changes
This is not the first time Trump has tried to change names.
Earlier in his second term, he said the Gulf of Mexico should be renamed the “Gulf of America.” The Associated Press refused to use the new name.
Because of this, Trump blocked the Associated Press from entering the White House. The news outlet took the matter to court.
A federal judge later ruled that the AP could keep using the name “Gulf of Mexico.” The court said this was protected by free speech laws.
Even with the court ruling, the Trump team continued to take action. They removed a press seat that was usually given to the AP.
This made it harder for the news agency to attend briefings and other events.