Iraq Country Profile Overview

Iraq, officially the Republic of Iraq, is a country in Western Asia (Middle East). It is bordered by Turkey to the north, Iran to the east, Kuwait to the southeast, Saudi Arabia to the south, Jordan to the southwest, and Syria to the west. Iraq also has a short but strategic coastline along the Persian Gulf. The capital city, Baghdad, is one of the most historically significant cities in the world.

Iraq is widely recognized as the heart of ancient Mesopotamia, often referred to as the Cradle of Civilization. The land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers gave rise to early writing, law, agriculture, and urban society, shaping global human development.

Importance of Iraq

Iraq is important due to its historical legacy, strategic Middle Eastern location, and vast oil and natural gas reserves. It plays a central role in regional geopolitics, energy markets, and cultural history. Iraq’s waterways and location connect the Levant, the Gulf, and Anatolia.

Alliances and International Relations

Iraq is a member of the United Nations (UN), Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Non-Aligned Movement, International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Bank. Iraq maintains diplomatic relations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Independence and Political History

Iraq gained independence from British mandate rule in 1932. The country became a republic in 1958. In recent decades, Iraq has experienced major political transitions, including regime change in 2003, followed by the establishment of a federal parliamentary republic under a new constitution.

Global Contribution

Iraq contributes globally through energy production, cultural heritage, and historical scholarship. Ancient civilizations such as Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria laid foundations for law, science, mathematics, and governance that continue to influence the modern world.

Region and Sub-Region

• Region: Asia

• Sub-Region: Western Asia (Middle East)

Iraq is a core Middle Eastern state with strong historical and cultural links across the Arab world.

Religion, Ethnicity, and Society

• Religion: Islam (Shia and Sunni), with Christian and other minority communities

• Ethnicity: Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, Assyrians, Yazidis, and others

Iraq’s society is ethnically and religiously diverse, contributing to its rich cultural identity.

Languages and Culture

• Official Languages: Arabic, Kurdish

Iraqi culture reflects ancient Mesopotamian heritage, Islamic civilization, and Arab traditions. Poetry, calligraphy, architecture, and music are deeply rooted in Iraqi identity.

Key Facts About Iraq

• Capital: Baghdad

• Currency: Iraqi dinar (IQD)

• Government: Federal parliamentary republic

• Geography: Rivers, plains, deserts, mountains

• Economy: Oil and gas, agriculture, trade

Conclusion

Iraq is a country of immense historical significance and strategic value. Despite modern challenges, its cultural depth, energy resources, and geopolitical position ensure Iraq remains a key nation in regional and global affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Where is Iraq located?
Iraq is located in the Middle East in Western Asia.

Q2: Why is Iraq historically important?
Iraq was home to ancient Mesopotamian civilizations that shaped human history.

Q3: When did Iraq gain independence?
Iraq became independent in 1932.

Q4: What languages are spoken in Iraq?
Arabic and Kurdish are the official languages.

Q5: Is Iraq rich in oil resources?
Yes, Iraq has some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves.