Iran Calls in Chinese Ambassador for Backing UAE’s Claim on Contested Gulf Islands
One expert believes that the dispute between Iran and China over the UAE’s support regarding the disputed Gulf islands will not escalate into a major diplomatic conflict. This is because China is Iran’s largest trading partner.
The Iranian foreign ministry has summoned the Chinese ambassador in Tehran to express its displeasure and condemn Beijing for taking the side of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the controversy surrounding the Gulf islands.
Experts suggest that the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) efforts to expand its influence in the Middle East have faced a setback.
During the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum in Beijing on May 30, the CCP stated in a joint declaration on June 2 that it supports the UAE’s attempts to resolve the sovereignty dispute over the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa through peaceful means.
Both the UAE and Iran claim ownership of these islands, which have been under Tehran’s control since 1971. Despite their small size, these islands hold strategic importance in the transportation of oil through the Strait of Hormuz.
“Iran has expressed its objection to China’s backing of unfounded claims in a joint statement with the UAE to the Chinese ambassador in Tehran,” reported Iran’s state media.
The Iranian foreign ministry stressed that the islands are an integral part of the country’s territory and called on China to reconsider its stance on the matter.
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During a press conference at the Chinese Foreign Ministry on June 3, spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated China’s consistent position on the islands and called for peaceful dialogue and consultation to resolve differences. She affirmed that the joint statement aligns with China’s stance on the issue.
Ms. Mao emphasized the strong relationship between China and Iran, stating that China values its comprehensive strategic partnership with Iran.
This is not the first time that Iran has been displeased with the CCP’s position. In December 2022, a joint statement from the CCP and the Gulf Cooperation Council supporting bilateral negotiations to resolve the island dispute led to Iran’s protest.
Cheng Cheng-Ping, a professor at Taiwan’s National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, predicts that despite the importance of the islands, the issue is unlikely to escalate into a major diplomatic conflict. He explains that Iran relies on China for resources due to strained relations with Israel and the United States.
CCP’s Attempt to Expand Influence in the Middle East
CCP leader Xi Jinping’s participation in the China-Arab forum on May 30 aimed to highlight progress in diplomatic relations with Arab nations. However, the unintentional provocation of Iran suggests a setback in its Middle East strategy.
China affairs observer Yang Wei noted that the CCP’s ambitions for greater influence in the Middle East have faced challenges, especially with Iran. He highlighted that the CCP’s involvement in the region is perceived as disruptive by Middle Eastern countries.
Overall, China’s economic situation post the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted its ability to dominate the Middle East region against competitors like the United States and Russia.
It is clear that both Iran and the CCP leverage their relationship for strategic benefits. However, the Middle East nations are cautious of the CCP’s disruptive actions in the region.
Luo Ya and Li Yan contributed to this report.
