Equatorial Guinea and Gabon Clash Over Oil-Rich Islands at ICJ

Equatorial Guinea urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to dismiss Gabon's claim over several potentially oil-rich islands in the Gulf of Guinea. The dispute centers on the tiny island of Mbanié, with both nations referencing different historical agreements for their claims. A final ruling is expected next year.

Equatorial Guinea has called on judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to reject Gabon's claim to several islands in potentially oil-rich waters in the Gulf of Guinea.

The two African neighbors, both significant oil producers, have requested the United Nations' top court to resolve the longstanding dispute over Mbanié, a tiny island just off the coast of Gabon. According to Equatorial Guinea's representative at the court, Domingo Mba Esono, "Gabon's position is factually and legally untenable."

The conflict dates back to 1972 when Gabon's army expelled Equatorial Guinea soldiers from Mbanié. Although the dispute was dormant, it resurfaced in the early 2000s due to oil prospects in the Gulf of Guinea. In 2016, an agreement allowed the ICJ to adjudicate the conflict. Equatorial Guinea cites a 1900 convention, while Gabon references a 1974 agreement, which Equatorial Guinea disputes for authenticity. Hearings will last a week, with Gabon presenting its case on Wednesday. The court's final and binding ruling is anticipated next year.

(With inputs from agencies.)