Occupying a bridge of land that joins Asia to the Middle East, Iraq is a country with deep historical roots and an abundance of natural resources. Its strategic location, bordering the Persian Gulf and nestled between Iran and Kuwait, has played a pivotal role in its history and development. With a total area of 438,317 square kilometers, it boasts a diverse terrain that ranges from desert plains to mountainous regions, making it a land of striking contrasts.
Geography and Climate
The vast majority of Iraq’s landscape is encompassed by broad plains, with reedy marshes along the Iranian border in the south creating large flooded areas. The country’s borders stretch for 3,809 km, touching Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Turkey. Despite its predominantly desert climate, the northern mountainous regions along the Iranian and Turkish borders experience cold winters with heavy snows that sometimes lead to extensive flooding in central and southern Iraq during early spring.
With a coastline of just 58 km along the Persian Gulf, Iraq’s access to maritime routes is limited yet strategically important. The country’s highest peak, Cheekha Dar, stands at 3,611 m, illustrating the geographical diversity that ranges from sea level to towering mountains.
Natural Resources and Land Use
Iraq is blessed with abundant natural resources, notably petroleum and natural gas, which form the backbone of its economy. Phosphates and sulfur are also significant. The land use pattern reveals a country keen on developing its agricultural potential; 18.10% of its land is dedicated to agriculture, with cereals like wheat and barley being crucial, alongside dates and vegetables. Forest land accounts for a mere 1.90%, reflecting the country’s arid climate.
The management of water resources, particularly through irrigation, plays a critical role in supporting agriculture, with an estimated 35,250 sq km of land being irrigated as of 2012. This is vital in a country where the terrain and climate pose significant challenges to cultivation.
Population and Urbanization
As of July 2020, Iraq’s population was estimated at 38,872,655, with a significant concentration in urban areas. Around 70.90% of the population lives in cities, including the capital, Baghdad, which is the most populous city with over 7 million residents. Other major urban areas include Mosul, Basra, Kirkuk, Najaf, and Erbil—each contributing to the fabric of Iraq’s diverse society. The distribution of people is largely influenced by the availability of water and arable land, leading to dense settlements along the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers.
Economy and Industry
Despite challenges, Iraq’s economy shows signs of growth and diversification. The dominance of petroleum in exports cannot be overstated, with crude oil constituting 99% of export products. However, the government is making efforts to broaden the economic base through industries such as chemicals, textiles, leather, construction materials, food processing, fertilizer, and metal fabrication/processing.
Agriculture also remains a crucial sector, contributing not only to the domestic food supply but also to employment. International trade relations reflect Iraq’s dependency on its natural resources, with India, China, and the United States being key export partners.
On the import side, Turkey and China are significant partners, providing food, medicine, and manufactured goods. These relationships underscore Iraq’s integration into the global economy despite the hurdles it faces.
Looking Forward
With a rich cultural heritage and vast natural resources, Iraq stands at a crossroads between its historical legacy and its aspirations for the future. Challenges remain, particularly in terms of infrastructure development and political stability. However, the country’s strategic importance, both regionally and globally, continues to offer opportunities for growth and development.
As Iraq continues to navigate its path towards rebuilding and rejuvenation, its blend of historical significance and natural wealth remains a cornerstone of its identity. With concerted efforts towards sustainable development and social cohesion, Iraq can leverage its assets to create a promising future for its people.
Country data
Country Code | IZ |
Region | Middle East |
Surface | 438317 sq km |
Land Surface | 437367 sq km |
Water Surface | 950 sq km |
Agricultural Surface | 18.10% |
Forest Surface | 1.90% |
Lowest Elevation Point | Persian Gulf 0 m |
Highest Elevation Point | Cheekha Dar (Kurdish for “Black Tent”) 3,611 m |
GDP / capita | $16,700 (2017 est.) |