Persian Gulf

Reports claim that U.S. President Donald Trump plans to refer to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf (or Gulf of Arabia) during an upcoming visit to Arab nations. Iran condemned this move as historically inaccurate and politically provocative.

Iran’s Response

• Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of a strong public and diplomatic backlash from Iranians.
• Iran views the name “Persian Gulf” as a core national identity issue.
• In 2012, Iran threatened legal action against companies like Google for omitting the label.

Historical Context

• The term “Persian Gulf” has been in use since at least the 16th century and is widely recognized in international treaties, maritime law, and UN documents.
• Iran (historically Persia) considers the name non-negotiable.
• Arab states, especially those in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), have promoted “Arabian Gulf” to reflect modern political alliances and rivalries with Iran.

Countries Bordering the Persian Gulf

1. Iran
2. Iraq
3. Kuwait
4. Saudi Arabia
5. Bahrain
6. Qatar
7. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
8. Oman (via the Strait of Hormuz)