Strategic Importance and Past Claims

Rear Admiral ⁤Shahram Irani,‍ commander of the Iranian navy, reiterated Iran’s claim of sovereignty over three ⁣Persian Gulf islands in an interview with the Tehran-based ​ Jam-e Jam newspaper‌ on November 30, ⁤2025. Irani stated that Iran will not permit⁢ any challenge to its territorial integrity regarding these islands, emphasizing a ⁢long-held and “indisputable” claim.

The islands are strategically significant due to ​their location, enabling Iran to effectively ⁣control the Strait‌ of Hormuz, ⁣a vital waterway for global oil transport. Irani highlighted the ⁢islands’ geographic, economic, military, and geopolitical value, comparing their strategic importance to that of aircraft carriers​ in bolstering⁤ Iran’s defensive capabilities.

Economic and natural Resources

Beyond military considerations, the islands possess⁢ substantial ‌economic potential. Both surface and subsurface areas ⁢contain diverse ​fossil ⁢and marine resources, according ⁣to Irani. ‌Clear⁤ waters, rich​ marine biodiversity, and coral formations offer opportunities for nature-based and maritime tourism.

Regional Tensions and ⁣External Influence

Irani noted ⁤that some regional‍ states, ‍allegedly‍ influenced by “extra-regional powers,” have raised claims regarding the islands,‍ attempting to create tension.He asserted that iran’s adversaries ⁢should not underestimate its resolve to ⁤defend its sovereignty and that fabricated‌ disputes will not undermine Iran’s ownership.

According to Irani, historical ​and legal evidence definitively ⁤supports​ Iran’s continuous and⁤ indisputable ownership of the three ⁢islands. He warned against attempts to undermine​ Iran’s sovereignty through the promotion of these disputes.