WANA (Oct 17) – In response to the joint statement issued during the meeting of European Union (EU) and Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC) leaders in Brussels, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has categorically rejected what he termed “baseless” allegations regarding the sovereignty of three islands in the Persian Gulf.

 

Baghaei emphasized that the statement reflects a disregard by EU member states for the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, particularly concerning the respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

 

He asserted that the islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb are integral to Iran’s territory and reiterated that misleading claims cannot alter this reality.

 

The controversy arose after the EU-PGCC joint statement demanded that Iran “end its occupation of the three islands,” labeling it a violation of UAE sovereignty and UN principles.

 

In his remarks, Baghaei underscored that Iran views these islands as inseparable parts of its territory, maintaining respect for UN principles and the concept of good neighborliness.

 

Baghaei also expressed concern that some regional countries are prioritizing unfounded territorial disputes over pressing issues affecting the Islamic world, such as the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by the Palestinian people and the aggression against Lebanon.

 

He noted that it was expected for regional nations to seize the opportunity of the EU meeting to hold member states accountable, especially those providing military support to the Israeli regime, thereby addressing the ongoing violence and oppression.