Russia angered Iran: Moscow's explanation not enough, we support Ukraine's territorial integrity

(Patria) - Iran said on Monday that the "explanation" Russia gave Tehran regarding a recent joint statement by Moscow and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) about three islands controlled by Iran, to which the United Arab Emirates also lays claim, was not good enough.

Last week, foreign ministers of GCC countries and Russia held talks and called for a "peaceful solution" to the issue of the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa.

In response, Iran's foreign ministry summoned the Russian ambassador in Tehran to express objections to the content of the statement, Arab media reported. Speaking at a joint press conference with his Omani counterpart in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said Iran had received "explanations" from Russia but considered them inadequate.

"We do not consider these explanations sufficient and we do not accept any repetition of such practice and claims regarding Iran's territorial integrity," Amir-Abdollahian said.

He said Iran would not allow any violation of its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, adding: "We are dissatisfied with what was highlighted in this statement regarding the three Iranian islands."

The three strategic islands, located in the Gulf near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, have long been a source of disagreement between the UAE and Iran. Amir-Abdollahian also spoke about the war in Ukraine, saying Tehran believes the conflict there should be resolved through peace negotiations, not military means. He emphasized Iran's support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, a stance some interpreted as a subtle response to Russia's joint statement with the GCC.

Kyiv and its Western allies have accused Iran of supplying weapons, particularly drones, to Russia for use against Ukraine. Iran has denied the allegations and says it maintains its neutrality in the conflict.