Dr. Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE President, recently reiterated the nation's unwavering stance on its three occupied islands: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa. This statement came as a firm response to criticism from Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, regarding the UAE’s recent address at the United Nations General Assembly. For over five decades, since Iranian forces occupied the islands in 1971, the UAE has maintained that its claim is backed by historical and legal documentation, consistently calling for a resolution that restores its rightful sovereignty.

The UAE remains committed to a peaceful resolution, advocating for either direct bilateral negotiations or formal arbitration through the International Court of Justice. Despite the Emirates' persistent efforts to engage in meaningful dialogue, Iran continues to decline these overtures and refuses to discuss the status of the islands. As international support for a negotiated settlement persists, the UAE continues to emphasize that its diplomatic position is rooted in international law, holding out hope that this long-standing territorial dispute will eventually be settled through fair and established legal channels.