Former US President Donald Trump is once again making headlines, this time over a geopolitical controversy that has simmered for decades. As part of his upcoming Middle East visit from May 13 to 16, Trump is reportedly considering renaming the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Gulf—a change that Iran vehemently opposes and has warned could escalate tensions.

Speaking to reporters ahead of his trip, Trump said he would soon make a decision regarding the terminology used by the United States for the strategically vital water body. “I’ll have to make a decision,” he stated, adding that the matter will be discussed with his hosts in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.

The Persian Gulf, historically named after Persia (modern-day Iran), has long been a point of contention between Iran and the Arab states that border it. While Iran holds tightly to the centuries-old name, Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE refer to it as the Arabian Gulf or simply “the Gulf.” Iraq, another bordering nation, has also adopted the term “Arabian Gulf.”

The name “Persian Gulf” dates back millennia and is recognized by cartographers and international bodies alike. Iran, formerly called Persia until 1935, argues that the name reflects its historical and cultural legacy. However, the Arab world disputes this, asserting their own long-standing presence along the Gulf’s coastline.

Iran has already raised strong objections to the possible renaming. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi took to social media platform X to express outrage, calling any such move “indicative of hostile intent toward Iran and its people.” He  Read More….