Iraq, a country situated in Western Asia, is characterized by its diverse geography and rich history. Covering an area of approximately 437,072 square kilometers (168,754 square miles), Iraq’s landmass places it among the moderately sized nations of the Middle East.
Geographically, Iraq is bordered by several countries, each contributing to its unique position in the region. To the north, it shares a border with Turkey, a nation that influences Iraqβs geopolitical and economic landscape. To the east, Iraq is bordered by Iran, with whom it has had complex historical and contemporary relations. On the south, Iraq shares borders with Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, both of which play significant roles in the regional dynamics. To the west, it is bordered by Jordan and Syria. Each of these borders contributes to Iraq’s geopolitical significance, impacting its trade, security, and cultural exchanges.
The country is divided into several distinct geographical regions that contribute to its overall size and diversity. The northern region, known for its mountainous terrain, includes parts of the Zagros Mountains, which extend into Iraq from Iran. This area is known for its cooler climate and lush vegetation compared to the rest of the country. The central region of Iraq features the vast Mesopotamian plain, historically known as the cradle of civilization. It is characterized by its fertile soil, which has been crucial to agriculture for millennia. The southern part of Iraq is dominated by desert landscapes and the alluvial plains of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which have historically supported both agriculture and settlement.
Iraq’s size and location have historically made it a crucial area for trade and cultural exchange. The Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which run through the country from north to south, have played a central role in shaping the civilization and agriculture of the region. The fertile lands between these rivers, known as Mesopotamia, are among the most ancient and historically significant regions in the world. This area was the site of early urban civilizations and the development of writing, making Iraq a key player in the history of human development.
In terms of administrative divisions, Iraq is divided into 19 governorates, also known as provinces. Each governorate is further subdivided into districts and then into sub-districts. The governorates are diverse in their geographical characteristics and include regions such as Baghdad, which is both the capital and one of the most populous cities; Basra, a key port city in the south; and Erbil, which serves as the capital of the Kurdistan Region in the north.
The diverse geographical features of Iraq contribute to its varied climate. The northern regions experience a temperate climate with cold winters and moderate summers, while the central and southern parts of the country experience a more arid climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. This climatic variation influences agricultural practices and habitation patterns across the country.
Iraq’s land area also encompasses a range of natural resources, which have been pivotal to its economy. The country is known for its substantial oil reserves, which are among the largest in the world. These reserves are predominantly located in the southern part of the country, with major oil fields near Basra. The oil industry has been a central aspect of Iraq’s economy, influencing both domestic policies and international relations.
In summary, Iraq’s land area of approximately 437,072 square kilometers encompasses a range of geographical features, from mountainous regions in the north to fertile plains and arid deserts in the south. Its location at the crossroads of several major nations and its historical significance as a cradle of civilization contribute to its importance in regional and global contexts.