Iran Summons Chinese Ambassador

Iran's foreign ministry summoned the Chinese ambassador on Sunday to protest a recent joint statement between China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The statement reportedly included language supporting the UAE's claim to three islands in the Persian Gulf.

The islands in question are Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb. Iran has controlled these islands since 1971, but the UAE also claims them. 

The UAE, a close ally of the United States, gained independence from Britain shortly before Iran seized control of the islands.

"Iran's objection to the Chinese support of baseless claims in a shared UAE-China statement has been expressed to the Chinese ambassador in Tehran," Iran state media said.

Iranian officials reportedly conveyed their objection to the Chinese ambassador, emphasizing that the islands are an "eternal part of the country's soil." 

The state media report added that Iran expects China to "mend its position on the issue."

China has been one of Iran's biggest trading partners for the past decade.