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Understanding the Strategic Importance of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb & Abu Musa Islands

A Deep Dive into the Geopolitical Tensions in the Persian Gulf

Understanding the Strategic Importance of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb & Abu Musa Islands

  • 02 Jan, 2024
  • 431

Overview of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa Islands

The Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa islands are situated in the Persian Gulf, close to the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. These islands play a crucial role in regional geopolitics and oil transportation.

Significance of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most vital shipping routes, with approximately one-fifth of global oil production transiting through it. This makes control over nearby territories, such as these islands, particularly important for both regional and international stakeholders.

Current Control of the Islands

All three islands—Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa—are currently under the control of Tehran, the capital of Iran. This has been a point of contention in the region.

Sovereignty Claims

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) asserts its claim to sovereignty over these islands, leading to ongoing diplomatic tensions with Iran. This dispute is rooted in historical claims and strategic interests.

Strategic Importance

These islands are strategically positioned near the Strait of Hormuz, making them significant for oil transportation and overall regional security. Control over them can influence the stability of oil markets and geopolitical relations.

Historical Context

The history of these islands is marked by fluctuating control and sovereignty claims, with various historical ties cited by both Iran and the UAE. This ongoing dispute reflects broader regional dynamics.

Impact on Regional Politics

The control of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa has substantial implications for regional politics, particularly affecting Iran-UAE relations and the overall geopolitical climate in the Gulf area.

International Efforts to Resolve the Dispute

International efforts to mediate the dispute have been limited, with the issue primarily remaining a bilateral conflict between Iran and the UAE. This lack of external intervention has prolonged the tensions.

Global Oil Trade Significance

Given their proximity to the Strait of Hormuz, these islands hold significant importance for global oil trade. Control over them can affect the security and flow of a large portion of the world's oil supplies, making their status critical for international markets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Where are the Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa islands located?
Answer: These islands are located in the Persian Gulf, near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Q2. Who controls the Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa islands?
Answer: Currently, all three islands are controlled by Iran, which has led to diplomatic tensions with the UAE.

Q3. What is the significance of the Strait of Hormuz?
Answer: The Strait of Hormuz is crucial for global oil transportation, with around 20% of the world's oil passing through this narrow passage.

Q4. Why do Iran and the UAE dispute control over these islands?
Answer: The dispute is rooted in historical claims and the strategic importance of the islands for regional security and oil trade.

Q5. Have there been any international efforts to resolve the dispute over the islands?
Answer: International involvement has been minimal, with the issue largely remaining a bilateral dispute between Iran and the UAE.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: Which country currently controls Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa islands?
A) United Arab Emirates
B) Saudi Arabia
C) Iran
D) Iraq
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: What percentage of the world's oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz?
A) 10%
B) 20%
C) 30%
D) 40%
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Why is the control of these islands significant for regional security?
A) They are tourist destinations.
B) They prevent piracy.
C) They influence oil transportation.
D) They are historical sites.
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: Which country claims sovereignty over the islands besides Iran?
A) Qatar
B) Oman
C) United Arab Emirates
D) Bahrain
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What has been the nature of international efforts regarding the island dispute?
A) Extensive mediation
B) Limited involvement
C) Complete resolution
D) No interest
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: The sovereignty of the Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa islands has historically been:
A) Stable
B) Contentious
C) Unchallenged
D) Resolved
Correct Answer: B

Question 7: The proximity of these islands to the Strait of Hormuz primarily impacts:
A) Fishing rights
B) Oil trade
C) Tourism
D) Military bases
Correct Answer: B

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