News excerpt:

Iran summoned the Russian envoy to Tehran after Moscow and Arab countries released a joint statement challenging Iran’s claim to disputed islands in the Persian Gulf.

More details on news:

• Tehran protested the statement the 6th Arab-Russian Cooperation Forum issued in Morocco that called for a peaceful solution to resolve the conflict between Iran and the United Arab Emirates over the islands.
• This marked the second time this year that Iran has called for a Russian envoy in protest over comments on the disputed islands. 

Persian Gulf islands dispute

• The Persian Gulf islands dispute involves Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), specifically concerning three islands: Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb.
• The three  islands have been governed by Iran since 1971 when its navy took control of them after British troops withdrew from the UAE.
• The three islands dominate the approach to the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.

Iran's Perspective:

• Iran claims that the three islands Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb have been historically part of Persian territory. 
• Iran considers these islands as an "inseparable" part of its territory.
• Iran cites an agreement it reached with Sharjah, asserting that this agreement gives Iran the right to administer Abu Musa and station troops there. However, it's crucial to note that there is no such agreement regarding the other two islands.

UAE's Perspective:

• The UAE also claims sovereignty over the three islands and has consistently pressed for a negotiated solution to the dispute. 
• According to the UAE, the islands belonged to the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah until Iran allegedly seized them by force just days before the formation of the Emirati federation.
• The UAE rejects Iran's historical claims and argues that the islands were part of the Emirati territory before Iran's occupation. 

Conclusion:

To resolve the Persian Gulf islands dispute, diplomatic dialogue and mediation are crucial. Both Iran and the UAE should engage in sincere negotiations, possibly facilitated by neutral parties, to find a mutually acceptable solution that considers historical context and international law.