Trump's Controversial Renaming: The Arabian Gulf Initiative

President Donald Trump is set to announce during his upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia that the United States will now refer to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf. This decision, confirmed by two US officials speaking anonymously to The Associated Press, marks a significant geopolitical move.

Arab nations have long advocated for the change, opposing Iran's historical connection to the body of water off its southern coast. The renaming of the Persian Gulf, on maps since the 16th century, is controversial, especially in Iran, with its rich Persian Empire heritage.

As Trump seeks closer ties with Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, this move may influence regional dynamics. However, the International Hydrographic Organisation retains authority over global waterway names, limiting Trump's influence outside the US.

(With inputs from agencies.)