Trump’s plan to rename the Persian Gulf has drawn backlash from Iranian lawmakers who emphasize its deep historical and cultural importance.
Trump faces backlash from lawmakers over plan to rename the historic Persian Gulf region
A new controversy has emerged from the White House as President Donald Trump reportedly plans to rename the Persian Gulf.
The move has provoked sharp condemnation from Iranian officials and lawmakers.
This follows Trump’s earlier controversial rebrandings, including renaming the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska’s Denali during his second term.
Renaming efforts reflect broader Trump-era identity reshaping
Trump’s administration appears committed to reshaping global labels in line with nationalist branding.
Previously, his executive orders renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” and reverted Denali back to “Mount McKinley.”
Though largely symbolic, these changes reflected on some digital platforms like Google Maps within U.S. jurisdictions.
The proposed renaming of the Persian Gulf to the “Arabian Gulf” or “Gulf of Arabia” appears politically motivated.
It coincides with Trump’s planned diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
Critics argue it is an overt attempt to curry favor with Arab allies in the region.
Iranian lawmakers deliver a strong rebuke to Trump
In response to Trump’s proposal, Iranian parliamentarians have issued strong and emotional statements.
During a recent parliamentary session, MP Ahmad Naderi denounced the idea as both historically ignorant and politically inflammatory.
“The Persian Gulf is not up for negotiation or branding,” Naderi declared.
“Its name is written into the fabric of our civilization. It was not earned through war or conquest—it is an inheritance of geography and history.”
Historical significance and cultural pride are emphasized.
Naderi criticized Trump’s focus on “power games,” arguing it undermines the region’s heritage and erases centuries of shared cultural legacy.
“The Persian Gulf and its geopolitics are God-given. It was not earned through invasion or military campaigns – this is our homeland and our house,” Naderi proclaimed from the official statement.
“Had you spent more time reading than gambling, you might have understood that this name was not given by gold, force, deceit, or bribery – it was bestowed by history,” the statement boldly continues.
“Mr Gambler, we stand not only on the right side of history, but also in the right place on the map of the world.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that geographic names like the Persian Gulf carry a universal significance.
He stated the name does not represent a territorial claim but honors a globally recognized cultural and historical identity.
The name change is likely symbolic only.
Experts say any name change by Trump would mainly impact U.S. government references and maps, following the pattern of earlier geographic rebrandings.
According to The New York Times, international organizations and other sovereign nations are under no obligation to adopt the altered terminology.
Saudi Arabia expected to adopt the new name in support of Trump’s vision.
However, Iran and much of the international community will likely continue using “Persian Gulf,” citing historical precedent and international law.
While the renaming may not carry immediate legal consequences, the symbolic implications are powerful.
For Iran, the issue touches on national pride, cultural heritage, and geopolitical identity.
Trump’s actions appear part of a broader campaign to reshape the U.S.’s global image to align with his worldview.