Draft:Arabian Gulf

The term "Arabian Gulf" (Arabic: الخليج العربي) is used in some Arab countries to refer to the body of water between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula. Unlike "Persian Gulf," which has deep historical roots and is supported by extensive documented evidence, the term "Arabian Gulf" emerged more recently, particularly with the rise of Arab nationalism in the modern era. In reality, the term "Al-Khaleej Al-Arabi" is largely political in nature and has not been widely used in international or historical sources; it is more of a misconception than a reality.

Historical Background

The term "Persian Gulf" has been consistently used in historical texts since ancient times. For example, Greek geographers such as Herodotus and Ptolemy used the Greek phrase Persicus Sinus to refer to this body of water. Likewise, in Islamic and Arabic texts, the region has been referred to by various names such as "Al-Khaleej Al-Farsi" (the Persian Gulf). For instance, the famous 14th-century Arab geographer Ibn Battuta consistently referred to the area as the Persian Gulf. Furthermore, the name "Persian Gulf" has been used in many historical maps and documents.

Coinage of Terms in the 20th Century

In the 20th century, particularly in the decades following World War II and with the establishment of new countries in the Middle East, the term Al-Khaleej Al-Arabi (the Arabian Gulf) became common among some Arab countries to refer to this region. These changes largely stemmed from Arab political and nationalist movements and were initially promoted by certain politicians and media outlets as a way to express the Arab identity of the region.

However, it should be noted that the use of the term "Al-Khaleej Al-Arabi" has been widely rejected in many academic and diplomatic forums, including the United Nations and UNESCO, especially in geographical and historical contexts. The term "Persian Gulf" continues to be recognized and used as the official name.

Political and Diplomatic Disputes

In recent decades, political disagreements over the name of this region have become a sensitive issue in relations among regional countries. Arab states, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have actively promoted the use of the term "Al-Khaleej Al-Arabi" (the Arabian Gulf), while Iran and many international communities continue to use the historical term "Persian Gulf."

These disputes, especially in international forums such as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and UNESCO, have led to tensions in regional and international diplomacy. In fact, in the official documents of these organizations, the term "Persian Gulf" has always been used.

The Position of the United States of America

In recent years, some reports indicated that the then-President of the United States, Donald Trump, considered using the term "Al-Khaleej Al-Arabi" during his visit to Saudi Arabia. These statements sparked widespread reactions internationally. In response to the criticism, Trump stated that he had not made a final decision and that his goal was simply to maintain friendly relations with Arab countries. This remark was particularly made after his official meetings with Saudi leaders in 2017.

So far, no official decision has been made by the U.S. government to change the name of the region in global official documents. Additionally, in credible international historical and geographical sources, the term "Persian Gulf" is predominantly used.

However, Google Maps, in an inappropriate and unofficial move, added the fake name "Arabian Gulf" alongside the Persian Gulf, which has sparked significant controversy and debate.

Historical Evidence and Maps

Throughout history, the name "Persian Gulf" has been recorded in reputable maps and geographical sources. Many ancient maps and texts, including those from ancient Greece, the Ottoman Empire, and British colonialism, all demonstrate the use of the term Persian Gulf. In this regard, one can refer to 19th and early 20th-century maps, where the name "Persian Gulf" is clearly marked.

In modern maps (except for Google Maps), including those published by the United Nations and UNESCO, the term "Persian Gulf" continues to be used.

Conclusion

Based on historical, geographical evidence and international documents, the correct and valid name for this body of water in the southwest of Asia is the Persian Gulf. Although the term "Al-Khaleej Al-Arabi" has become common in some Arab countries, in international forums and in historical and geographical sources, the term "Persian Gulf" remains recognized as the correct and approved name.

Therefore, it is recommended that in academic and geographical discussions and sources, the term "Persian Gulf" be used to avoid confusion and political conflicts, and to preserve the rich history of the region.