About IR
Location
Iran, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country located in Western Asia. It is bordered by Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan to the north, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east, Iraq to the west, and Turkey and the Persian Gulf to the northwest and south, respectively.
Capital
The capital city of Iran is Tehran.
Population
As of the latest estimates, Iran has a population of approximately 84 million people, making it the 18th most populous country in the world.
Area
Iran covers a total land area of about 1,648,195 square kilometers (636,372 square miles), making it the 17th largest country in the world by land area.
Official Language
The official language of Iran is Persian, also known as Farsi.
Government
Iran is an Islamic republic with a political system based on a combination of Islamic principles and democratic elements. The Supreme Leader of Iran, currently Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, holds the highest authority in the country, while the President serves as the head of government.
Religion
The predominant religion in Iran is Islam, with the majority of the population adhering to Shia Islam, which is the official state religion. There are also religious minorities, including Sunni Muslims, Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, and Baha'is.
Economy
Iran has a mixed economy with significant state ownership and intervention in key sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and banking. The country possesses the world's fourth-largest proven petroleum reserves and the second-largest natural gas reserves, which are the backbone of its economy.
Oil Industry
Iran is a major oil-producing country and one of the leading members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Oil exports play a crucial role in the Iranian economy, contributing a significant portion of government revenue.
Culture
Iran has a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years, including contributions to literature, art, architecture, music, and philosophy. Persian literature, particularly poetry, is renowned worldwide, with poets such as Rumi, Hafez, and Ferdowsi having a profound influence on Persian culture.
History
Iran has a long and complex history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Persian Empire. Throughout its history, Iran has experienced periods of great cultural and scientific achievement, as well as conquests and invasions by various empires and powers.
Nuclear Program
Iran's nuclear program has been a subject of international scrutiny and controversy. The country maintains that its nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes, such as energy production and medical research, but it has faced accusations of pursuing nuclear weapons capability.
National Items of Iran
Asiatic Cheetah
The Asiatic Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus venaticus) is the national animal of Iran. Known for its speed and elegance, it symbolizes the country's unique wildlife and the efforts to conserve this critically endangered species.
Tulip
The Tulip (Tulipa) is a significant flower in Iran, often associated with the country's cultural heritage and natural beauty. It symbolizes martyrdom and love in Persian culture.
Cypress Tree
The Cypress tree (Cupressus sempervirens) is the national tree of Iran. It represents endurance, resilience, and timeless beauty in Persian culture.
Persian Lion
The Persian Lion (Panthera leo persica) is another important national symbol, representing strength, courage, and the historical heritage of Iran.
Golestan Palace
Golestan Palace in Tehran is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Iranian architecture and cultural heritage. It represents the rich history and artistic achievements of Iran.
Fesenjan
Fesenjan is a traditional Persian dish made with pomegranate paste, ground walnuts, and poultry or meat. It represents the rich culinary traditions and unique flavors of Iranian cuisine.
Pomegranate
The Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a significant fruit in Iran, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and the rich agricultural heritage of the country.
Carpet Weaving
Iranian carpets are renowned for their intricate designs and craftsmanship. They symbolize the rich artisanal heritage and cultural traditions of Iran.
Roses
Roses (Rosa) are highly valued in Iranian culture and are often used in gardens, ceremonies, and as motifs in art. They symbolize beauty, love, and the aesthetic traditions of Iran.
Hafez
Hafez, a famous Persian poet, is a national cultural icon. His works symbolize the literary and intellectual heritage of Iran, celebrated for their profound insights and lyrical beauty.
Nowruz
Nowruz, the Persian New Year, is a major cultural celebration in Iran. It symbolizes renewal, cultural continuity, and the rich traditions of the Persian calendar.
Persepolis
Persepolis is an ancient ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It symbolizes the historical grandeur and architectural heritage of ancient Persia.
This anthem reflects themes of unity, faith, and victory, while also expressing gratitude to the Creator. It celebrates the Islamic Republic of Iran and its principles.
The national anthem of Iran is called "سرود ملی جمهوری اسلامی ایران" (Sorud-e Melli-e Jomhuri-ye Eslāmi-ye Irān) in Persian, which translates to "National Anthem of the Islamic Republic of Iran" in English. Here are the lyrics in Persian along with an English translation:
سرود ملی جمهوری اسلامی ایران
به نام پروردگار بخشنده و مهربان
با افتخار و سرافرازی از توحید ایمانی
و شعار: حیات، از افلاک پیامی
تو پرچم سربلند اسلامی همه جا
پرستشگاه ما و سرور جاودانی
به جای این جاودانی و پیروزی نهایی
از آسمان پیامی وحی درآمد نوازی
زمین را خورشید اسلامی روشن کرد
و ماه را دولت خود، دولت جمهوری اسلامی داد
اگر از سر گیرد این آزرم گرد زمین
به زیر دستهای پاک آسمانی اسلام، زندگان شود
پیروز باشی ای ایران!
و تو را سپاس ای ایزد به بخشندگی و مهربانی
و تو را سپاس ای ایزد به بخشندگی و مهربانی
National Anthem of the Islamic Republic of Iran
In the name of the compassionate and merciful God
With pride and exalted faith in your unity
And the slogan: Life, a message from the skies
Your high-flying banner of Islam everywhere
Our place of worship and eternal lord
Instead of this eternity and final victory
A message of revelation came from the sky
The sun of Islam illuminated the earth
And bestowed upon it its fortune, the Islamic Republic
If this azure neckband should fall from the earth
It shall revive under the heavenly hands of Islam
Be victorious, O Iran!
And to you, O Creator, we give thanks for your grace and kindness
And to you, O Creator, we give thanks for your grace and kindness
