U.S President Donald Trump is considering officially renaming the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Gulf.
The body of water has been known as the Persian Gulf since at least 550 B.C., but the term “Arabian Gulf” has been increasingly used by Arab nations since the 1960s amid rising Arab nationalism.
The proposed name change is part of a broader diplomatic strategy as President Trump prepares for a Middle East tour this week, which includes visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
The trip aims to secure substantial economic, trade, and technology agreements with Gulf allies, echoing his 2017 tour and reflecting his “America First” foreign policy.
Controversy to Change the Name
The renaming proposal has sparked controversy, particularly with Iran, which has historically opposed the use of “Arabian Gulf.”
Iran has long maintained that the term “Persian Gulf” reflects the region’s historical and cultural ties to Persia. In contrast, Arab nations have advocated for “Arabian Gulf” to assert their identity and sovereignty over the region.
The United States has historically used both terms. The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency lists “Persian Gulf” as the conventional name but acknowledges “Arabian Gulf” as a variant.
The U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, has used “Arabian Gulf” in its operations to align with local conventions.
Qatar to Present Trump with Luxury Jet
In preparation for the visit, the Trump administration is reportedly set to receive a high-end Boeing 747-8 jet from Qatar’s royal family.
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Valued at approximately Ksh51.6 billion ($400 million), the aircraft is known for its opulent design and has been described as a “flying palace.”
President Trump is scheduled to travel to the Middle East this week, with planned stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
This marks his first international trip since the beginning of his term.
White House insiders say the plane will be used temporarily as Air Force One during Trump’s second term.
If finalized, the arrangement would be unprecedented, marking the first time a U.S. president has used a foreign aircraft for official duties before transferring it to a personal presidential foundation.
Brokering Peace Between India and Pakistan
The visit comes after Trump on Saturday, May 10, 2025, President Trump said he was pleased to announce that India and Pakistan solved their differences amicably.
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“After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire. Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump stated.
Additionally, Trump on Sunday, May 11, announced what he described as a breakthrough in efforts to end the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
“A potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine!” Trump said in a post on social media.
“Think of the hundreds of thousands of lives that will be saved as this never-ending ‘bloodbath’ hopefully comes to an end,” the post further read.
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