Iran's Plan to Populate Disputed Strait of Hormuz Islands Raises Tensions with UAE
Iran is planning to increase the population of the disputed islands in the Strait of Hormuz, which are also claimed by the UAE. The Iranian government is offering free plots of land and loans for building homes to Iranians who commit to living on the islands. Families who commit to living on the islands for 12 years will also be exempted from mandatory military service. The largest island, Abu Musa, could potentially see its population rise to 1.7 million people. The islands are strategically important for Iran's maritime defense in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE's claim to the islands has been rejected by Iran, and tensions have escalated with military drills and diplomatic disputes involving China and Russia.