The issue of the three disputed islands in the Persian gulf in the context of Iranian–Russian political and diplomatic relations

The article examines political and diplomatic disagreements between the Russian Federation and the Islamic Republic of Iran concerning the sovereignty of the islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb in the Persian Gulf. It analyzes the historical and legal foundations of Iran’s position and considers the development of the dispute within the broader context of regional politics and international law. Particular attention is given to the colonial legacy of the issue, especially the role of British policy in the Persian Gulf and its influence on the emergence of competing territorial claims and interpretations of the islands’ legal status. The study also explores the approach of the Russian Federation to this dispute. Russia’s position is examined within the framework of its multi-vector foreign policy in the Middle East and its efforts to maintain balanced relations with both Iran and the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In this context, the article analyzes diplomatic statements and political factors that shape Moscow’s cautious and pragmatic approach to the issue. Special attention is devoted to the diplomatic incident of 2023, which emerged after a joint statement by Russia and GCC states addressing the question of the islands and supporting a peaceful settlement of the dispute. The article examines the reasons behind Tehran’s critical reaction and the perception of this episode within Iranian political discourse. The study concludes that the dispute surrounding the islands has a predominantly symbolic and strategic character and does not fundamentally undermine the foundations of Iranian–Russian partnership.