Seraj: Distorting the name of the Persian Gulf violates fundamental human rights

Seraj emphasized that the Persian Gulf is an inseparable part of Iran’s history and a prominent element of shared human heritage, with a name rooted in the depths of human civilization and recognized for centuries in maps, official documents, and global diplomatic correspondence.

He noted that desperate attempts to distort this longstanding name are entirely political, biased, and driven by the anti-Iranian motives of certain violent and anti-human rights individuals and groups whose hostility toward Iran is well-known.

He added: “Such actions not only constitute a clear violation of the historical and identity rights of the Iranian nation but also represent an overt insult to the collective memory of human civilization and the principle of respecting the heritage of nations under international law.”

Seraj asserted: “Iran has always respected global norms, recognizing names such as the Sea of Oman, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, or Red Sea, understanding that these names do not signify ownership but reflect a shared human understanding. In contrast, distorting the name of the Persian Gulf is a hostile and humiliating act that serves only to provoke public sentiment and wound the national feelings of Iranians.”

The Deputy for International Affairs of the Judiciary continued: “For the Iranian nation, the Persian Gulf is not merely a geographical name; it is the soul and historical memory of an ancient civilization. For this reason, Iranians from all ethnicities, religions, and political affiliations have stood united with resolute determination against this disrespect. In recent days, we have witnessed the proud and nationwide protests of Iranians across the globe—an admirable and inspiring solidarity that shows the Persian Gulf is not only part of Iran’s land but part of the soul of the Iranian nation. This unparalleled unity is a decisive response that puts any malicious actor in a position of weakness and regret.”

He further stated: “The historical name of the Persian Gulf, alongside its geopolitical significance, is a strategic asset, a marker of Iranian identity, and a key element in regional development. Those attempting to distort this name are not only ignorant of Iran’s thousands of years of history but are deliberately waging a linguistic and identity-based soft war against Iran. These actions only further expose the illegitimacy of the institutions and groups involved in this fraudulent project.”

The Secretary of the High Council for Human Rights recalled: “According to the principles and documents of international institutions, particularly the United Nations, this region is recognized as the ‘Persian Gulf.’ The UN Deputy Spokesperson recently reaffirmed that the organization’s historical stance on this matter remains unchanged. Consequently, any deliberate distortion of this name lacks legal, geographical, and historical credibility and will only deepen the Iranian public’s distrust and resentment toward the double standards and provocative policies of certain governments.”

In conclusion, Seraj emphasized: “The High Council for Human Rights of the Islamic Republic of Iran considers this provocative act, rooted in a colonial and unilateral perspective, a violation of fundamental human rights principles, the cultural rights of nations, and an assault on the historical identity of Iranians. We call on all international, scientific, and cultural institutions, as well as defenders of truth and freedom, to take a clear, firm, and committed stance against this unjust attempt to distort history and falsify geographical identity.”