Washington DC (TDI): In a statement that has sparked global attention, United States President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that he will make a decision on how the US will officially refer to the waterway historically known as the “Persian Gulf” during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, scheduled from May 13–16.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Trump remarked, “I’ll have to make a decision,” when asked whether he would address the long-standing naming dispute. “I don’t want to hurt anybody’s feelings. I don’t know if feelings are going to be hurt. I’m going to be given a briefing on that, and I’ll make a decision.”
The comment was followed by widespread speculation in US media that Trump may announce a shift in terminology—opting for “Arabian Gulf” or “Gulf of Arabia.” This potential change carries significant geopolitical weight, as the naming of the waterway has been a long-standing point of contention between Iran and several Arab nations.
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Iran maintains that the term “Persian Gulf” is historically accurate, citing ancient maps and international naming conventions. Iranian officials have repeatedly condemned any attempts to alter the name, warning that such actions would be seen as provocations.
Reacting to recent reports, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi criticized the possibility of renaming as “indicative of hostile intent,” warning it would ignite strong backlash from Iranians globally.
On the other side, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Iraq often use the term “Arabian Gulf,” reflecting broader regional disputes and differing narratives. In 2023, Iran summoned the Iraqi ambassador over Iraq’s use of “Arabian Gulf Cup” for a regional football tournament, demonstrating the name’s sensitivity in diplomatic relations.
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This is not the first time President Trump has stirred debate over geographic nomenclature. In January, one of his initial presidential acts included a controversial executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America,” a move widely criticized by international observers.
As President Trump prepares for his first Middle East trip since retaking office, the world watches closely how his stance on the Persian Gulf may influence US foreign relations and regional diplomacy.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
