Cyprus has found itself unexpectedly embroiled in a long-standing territorial disagreement between Iran and the United Arab Emirates. This situation arose following a formal diplomatic protest lodged by Tehran with Nicosia. Iran summoned the Cypriot ambassador to its Ministry of Foreign Affairs to deliver a stern warning. This action was prompted by the Mediterranean island nation publicly aligning itself with the UAE’s claims over three strategically vital islands located in the Persian Gulf.
The core of this protracted disagreement centres on Iran's firm assertion of sovereignty. Iran maintains that Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb have historically constituted an "inseparable part" of its territory. Conversely, the UAE contests this historical assertion, laying claim to these islands. The UAE views Iran's current occupation as a clear violation of its territorial integrity. The recent visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Nicosia appears to have been the primary catalyst for Iran's heightened diplomatic response. During this high-profile visit, Cyprus and the UAE jointly issued a declaration. This declaration unequivocally reaffirmed Nicosia's support for Abu Dhabi's sovereignty over the disputed territories.
In its official and strongly worded protest, Iran demanded that Cyprus "immediately correct" its stance. Tehran framed the joint declaration as a "serious diplomatic error." Mohammad Alibek, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, personally delivered this critical message to Cypriot Ambassador Petros Nakouzis. The Iranian Foreign Ministry's official communiqué underscored the significant gravity of the situation. It emphatically stressed that Cyprus's endorsement of the UAE's position constitutes unwarranted interference in Iran's internal affairs.
These disputed islands are situated within the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping lane. Their strategic location grants them significant geopolitical and economic importance. Consequently, any territorial claims in this area are a matter of considerable regional sensitivity. The joint declaration issued by Cyprus and the UAE not only supported the UAE's claim but also explicitly called on Iran to cease its actions. These actions were termed the "occupation" of the islands. Furthermore, it proposed that the dispute be resolved through direct bilateral negotiations between Iran and the UAE. Alternatively, it suggested referral to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
This recent development places Cyprus in a precarious diplomatic position. It is now caught between the competing interests of two powerful regional nations. This could potentially impact its diplomatic relations with both Iran and the wider European Union. The EU has also previously issued statements regarding these islands, in conjunction with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). These EU-GCC statements, referenced in the recent joint declaration, have consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing dispute.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the enduring geopolitical tensions prevalent in the Persian Gulf. It highlights the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that characterize the region. By drawing Cyprus into this dispute, Iran appears to be signaling its strong displeasure with any international endorsement of the UAE's claims. Cyprus, by reaffirming its support for a fellow EU member state's position, has inadvertently amplified the diplomatic friction. The ultimate impact on regional stability and the future trajectory of the Iran-UAE island dispute remains uncertain. However, it is clear that this controversy has now gained an unexpected international dimension.