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Sovereignty and Dispute Resolution: Strategic Significance, International Law, and Geopolitics in the UAE-Iran Territorial Disputes over Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb
Date Issued
2024
Author(s)
Cho, Youngrok
Abstract
This dissertation critically examines the enduring territorial dispute between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Iran over the strategically vital islands of Abu Musa, Greater and Lesser Tunb, located near the Strait of Hormuz. The study begins by exploring the historical evolution of sovereignty, from the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648 to its application in the Gulf region. It highlights how Western concepts of sovereignty, deeply rooted in European history, face significant challenges in the Middle East, a region with complex identities and tribal affiliations predating modernization.
This analysis delves into the specific historical claims and legal arguments presented by both the UAE and Iran, emphasizing the islands' geopolitical significance and the relevant legal frameworks. The role of international law, particularly the International Court of Justice (ICJ), is critically assessed in the context of this dispute, acknowledging the limitations of legal approaches when faced with entrenched historical and geopolitical factors. The dissertation also explores Iran's strategic objectives in militarizing the islands, its economic dependence on oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, and the broader implications for regional security and global energy markets.
Through the integration of historical, legal, and geopolitical perspectives, this dissertation provides a comprehensive understanding of the UAE-Iran territorial dispute.
It underscores the necessity for innovative conflict resolution strategies that transcend traditional diplomacy and legal adjudication, incorporating mediation and confidence-building measures. The research concludes by discussing the dispute's implications for international law, regional security, and the global geopolitical landscape, offering insights into potential pathways for a peaceful resolution.
This analysis delves into the specific historical claims and legal arguments presented by both the UAE and Iran, emphasizing the islands' geopolitical significance and the relevant legal frameworks. The role of international law, particularly the International Court of Justice (ICJ), is critically assessed in the context of this dispute, acknowledging the limitations of legal approaches when faced with entrenched historical and geopolitical factors. The dissertation also explores Iran's strategic objectives in militarizing the islands, its economic dependence on oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, and the broader implications for regional security and global energy markets.
Through the integration of historical, legal, and geopolitical perspectives, this dissertation provides a comprehensive understanding of the UAE-Iran territorial dispute.
It underscores the necessity for innovative conflict resolution strategies that transcend traditional diplomacy and legal adjudication, incorporating mediation and confidence-building measures. The research concludes by discussing the dispute's implications for international law, regional security, and the global geopolitical landscape, offering insights into potential pathways for a peaceful resolution.
