# Persian Gulf (documentary film)

The documentary film Persian Gulf Documents, directed by Orod Attarpour (fa), was first broadcast on National Persian Gulf Day in 2011 on Channel One of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB).

## Synopsis

This documentary captivates viewers with compelling written, audio, and visual records from various Arab countries. It begins with a significant speech by former Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, delivered on the day of the nationalization of the Suez Canal. In front of a massive crowd and in the presence of Arab and Western ambassadors, Nasser repeatedly declared, "From the Atlantic Ocean to the Persian Gulf, this is the Arab homeland," which was met with prolonged applause from the audience.
The film is a thoroughly academic and cinematic research documentary, structured with a professional narrative and verified historical documents.
The documentary opens with archival footage, accompanied by narration from Orod Attarpour:
"July 26, 1956—In just a few moments, Colonel Gamal Abdel Nasser will deliver his historic speech, announcing the nationalization of the Suez Canal. In part of his speech, he declares: ‘Colonialism created Israel to dominate us. We feel the threat and defend our Arab identity, striving to preserve it from the Atlantic Ocean to the Persian Gulf...’"
A few years later, some Arab nations began to cast doubt on the historical name of the Persian Gulf, attempting to replace it with "the Arabian Gulf." This documentary narrates the story behind this controversy.

## Archival Footage of Arab Leaders' Speeches

Throughout Persian Gulf, the documentary not only presents audio recordings of Arab leaders but also relies heavily on visual evidence, including historical maps and official documents. One of the film’s key strengths is its use of rare archival footage and original recordings of figures such as Gamal Abdel Nasser, Saddam Hussein, and other Arab leaders. These elements add depth and authenticity to the documentary.
To ensure accuracy, the filmmaker engaged with subject-matter experts, including scholars like Pirouz Mojtahedzadeh and Mohammad Ajam (محمدعجم), while also drawing from extensive academic research.
Orod Attarpour’s narration in Persian Gulf is rooted in direct, well-documented historical evidence. The documentary meticulously builds its narrative, combining textual research with compelling visual documentation. In one particularly striking sequence, Attarpour visits a street in Cairo where an old sign bears the name Persian Gulf. Above it, a newer plaque has been mounted, replacing the original name with Arabian Gulf. The juxtaposition of these two signs serves as a powerful visual testament to the controversy surrounding the name.
The documentary also features insights from leading experts in Arab affairs, further strengthening its credibility and depth.

## Criticism and Reviews

The documentary Persian Gulf has been analyzed and reviewed in various discussion panels and critical sessions.

## Awards

The documentary Persian Gulf was screened in the historical documentary category at the 5th Cinema Vérité International Documentary Festival. It won the Best Documentary Film and Best Research awards.