Cyprus is now part of a disagreement between Iran and the United Arab Emirates. This happened after Iran officially complained to Cyprus. Iran called the Cypriot ambassador to its Foreign Ministry. They gave a strong warning. Cyprus publicly supported the UAE's claims over three important islands. These islands are in the Persian Gulf.
Iran believes the islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb are its own. Iran says they have always been part of its land. However, the UAE disagrees with this. The UAE claims these islands belong to them. They say Iran's control is a violation of their territory. The UAE President visited Cyprus recently. This visit seems to have caused Iran's strong reaction. During his visit, Cyprus and the UAE made a joint statement. This statement said Cyprus supports the UAE's claim to the islands.
Iran officially protested and asked Cyprus to change its position. Iran called the joint statement a "serious diplomatic error." Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister met with the Cypriot Ambassador. He gave him this important message. Iran's Foreign Ministry said the situation is very serious. They stated that Cyprus supporting the UAE is interference. This interference is in Iran's own affairs.
These islands are in a very important shipping lane. This is the Strait of Hormuz. Because of this, the islands have great importance. Therefore, any claims about these islands are sensitive. The joint statement from Cyprus and the UAE supported the UAE's claim. It also asked Iran to stop its actions. They called Iran's control an "occupation." The statement suggested Iran and the UAE talk directly to solve the problem. They also suggested taking the case to the International Court of Justice.
This situation puts Cyprus in a difficult diplomatic position. It is now between two powerful countries. This could affect Cyprus's relations with Iran and the European Union. The EU has also spoken about these islands before. They have asked for a peaceful solution.
This event shows the continuing tensions in the Persian Gulf. It shows the complex relationships in the region. By involving Cyprus, Iran is showing it is unhappy. Cyprus supported a fellow EU member. This has made the diplomatic friction worse. It is not clear how this will affect the region. However, this dispute now has an international aspect.