Three Fingers: A Symbol Reinforcing Iran’s Claim Over the Three Islands

WANA (Oct 25) – In a recent collective initiative, Iranian social media users have turned a well-known symbol into a powerful reminder of Iran’s historical claim over the three islands: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa. Inspired by the “three-finger” sign—a popular gesture in Emirati culture—Iranian users have shared images using this pose across social media, expressing a sense of national pride and belonging tied to these islands.

The “three-finger” symbol in the UAE gained significance in the mid-2010s, symbolizing “victory, excellence, and love.” It became widely adopted by Emirati citizens and featured in public spaces and Dubai buildings.

Now, however, this symbol is finding new meaning as Iranian users adopt it in a grassroots campaign, subtly reminding their neighbors that these islands are part of Iran’s identity and territory. This is an example of “symbol appropriation,” a media strategy used to reclaim a symbol with fresh significance.

Why Are These Islands Important?

The islands’ strategic location near the Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for global oil transport—makes them geopolitically significant. Control over these islands implies influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a key interest for regional and even global powers.

From the days of British colonial presence in the Persian Gulf to the post-independence era, there have been attempts to shift ownership of these islands. Over the decades, the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC) and some Western countries have supported the UAE’s claims over these islands, though Iran views these claims as historically and legally unsubstantiated, fueling a sense of national defense among Iranians.

For years, Iran has sought to defend its territorial integrity through diplomatic and legal channels in international forums, consistently providing historical and legal evidence of its ownership of these islands.

The Redefinition of the “Three Fingers” Symbol

This clever response to statements by the GCC and support from some global powers for UAE claims has transcended social media, spreading across platforms and social networks.

Many Iranians in cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz are joining in, sharing images of the three-finger gesture. There are even discussions about naming streets and squares after these islands. For the Iranian people, ownership of these islands is not merely a political issue but a part of their shared identity and history.

Once a symbol of Emirati pride and unity, the “three fingers” have now become a rallying emblem for the defense of Iranian islands.

This campaign, known as #IRANTTB, has become a grassroots declaration of support for these islands, thriving without government backing and powered solely by public sentiment.