US President to Announce Renaming of 'Persian Gulf' to 'Arabian Gulf' During Saudi Visit

Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters

The US President, Donald Trump.

The US President, Donald Trump, is expected to announce a change in the terminology used by the United States government, referring to the body of water traditionally known as the "Persian Gulf" as the "Arabian Gulf." The announcement is anticipated to take place during his forthcoming visit to Saudi Arabia later this month.

The term "Persian Gulf" has been in use for centuries and remains the designation used by international organisations such as the United Nations and the International Hydrographic Organisation. However, several Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, favour the term "Arabian Gulf," citing regional identity and historical precedent.

The Trump administration's move is seen as a diplomatic gesture aimed at strengthening ties with key Gulf allies. Analysts suggest that the change is largely symbolic, reflecting broader geopolitical alignments rather than a revision of historical fact.

Iran, for its part, continues to advocate for the usage of "Persian Gulf," emphasising the term’s longstanding historical and cultural significance. Iranian officials have previously voiced concern over alternative nomenclature, viewing such moves as inconsistent with the historical record.

Observers note that while the proposed change may carry diplomatic weight, it is not expected to significantly alter the broader dynamics of regional cooperation and engagement.

In one of his initial acts as president, Trump signed an executive order in January to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America.”



PUKMEDIA