Iran Summons EU Envoys Over 'Interventionist' Stance on Gulf Islands and Nuclear Program

Tehran Protests EU-GCC Joint Statement

The Islamic Republic of Iran has formally summoned ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions from European Union member states in Tehran to convey a 'strong protest' against what it described as 'interventionist' statements. The summons, which occurred on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, with reports emerging on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, was in response to a joint communiqué issued by the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) following a summit in Kuwait on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, met with the European diplomats to express Tehran's displeasure. The contentious EU-GCC statement addressed Iran's sovereignty over three strategic islands in the Strait of Hormuz and raised concerns about its nuclear and missile programs.

Disputed Islands and Sovereignty Claims

A primary point of contention was the EU-GCC statement's call for Iran 'to end its occupation' of the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa. These islands, located near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, are claimed by both Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Deputy Foreign Minister Takht-Ravanchi vehemently rejected these claims, reaffirming Iran's 'absolute and permanent' and 'indisputable sovereignty' over the islands, which he described as 'inseparable' parts of Iranian territory. Iran has maintained control over these islands since 1971, shortly after the withdrawal of British forces from the region. Takht-Ravanchi criticized the EU's endorsement of the UAE's position as a 'baseless claim' and a violation of the principle of respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Nuclear and Missile Program Concerns

The EU-GCC joint statement also urged Iran to resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), pursue regional de-escalation, and curb the proliferation of missiles and drones. Iran has previously suspended its cooperation with the IAEA amid heightened tensions and reported attacks on its nuclear facilities.

In response, Majid Takht-Ravanchi dismissed the criticism regarding Iran's missile program as 'clear interference' in the country's internal affairs. He asserted that Iran's 'indigenous defensive capabilities' are an inherent right and crucial for regional stability and security. Iran has also denied previous EU accusations of supplying drones and missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine, maintaining its neutrality in the conflict.

Reimposition of UN Sanctions

Adding to the diplomatic friction, Takht-Ravanchi condemned the decision by Britain, France, and Germany (E3), the European signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA), to reimpose UN sanctions. He accused these European nations of 'breaching their commitments' under the nuclear deal and unfairly blaming Iran for non-compliance, leading to a 'deadlock in diplomacy'. This move refers to the activation of the 'snapback' mechanism, which reinstated previous UN sanctions.