In a growing diplomatic row, Iran has summoned Russia's envoy to protest a joint declaration signed by Moscow and Arab countries that called for talks over three islands disputed between Tehran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The move comes amid heightened tensions over the territorial dispute, as Iran reaffirms its stance on the islands' sovereignty.

The summoning of Moscow's charge d'affaires in Tehran occurred just days after Russia and Arab countries signed the joint declaration, which expressed support for peaceful solutions and initiatives to resolve the islands' dispute. Iran's foreign ministry revealed that it had called on Moscow's envoy to submit a "note of protest" regarding the contents of the joint statement.

In a statement released by Iran's foreign ministry, it emphasized, "The Islamic Republic of Iran considers any claim from any side in this regard as rejected and unacceptable." Iran vehemently defends its territorial integrity and sovereignty over the islands and made its position clear during a phone conversation between Iran's top diplomat, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, on Friday. During the call, Amir-Abdollahian reiterated that the islands are an integral part of Iran's territory and emphasized Tehran's steadfast unwillingness to compromise on this matter.

This is not the first time Iran has expressed its discontent over a joint statement involving Russia and Arab countries concerning the islands. Back in July, Iran summoned the Russian ambassador to protest a similar declaration. The recurrent issue highlights the escalating tensions between Iran and the UAE over the disputed islands.

The islands in question – Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb – are currently under Iran's control but are claimed by the UAE. The dispute over the islands has been a long-standing issue between the two countries, causing friction and strained relations.

As the diplomatic row intensifies, both sides appear unwavering in their respective positions. The summoning of Russia's envoy by Iran and its strong-worded protest reflect Iran's determination to defend its territorial integrity. The outcome of this dispute and the influence of external actors like Russia and Arab countries will have significant implications for the region and its geopolitical dynamics.