Iran’s Geography
Iran is a country situated in Western Asia, bordered by Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan, and also shares a coastline with the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Due to its location, Iran is surrounded by several water bodies that play a crucial role in the country’s economic and strategic importance.
The Caspian Sea: Iran’s Northern Border
The Caspian Sea, located in the north of Iran, is the largest lake in the world and is considered a sea due to its size and saltwater content. It is the largest of all the water bodies surrounding Iran and is shared with Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan. The Caspian Sea is a vital source of fish, caviar, and natural gas, and Iran has a significant share of its coast, allowing for economic and strategic benefits.
Aras River: Separating Iran from Azerbaijan
The Aras River forms the natural border between Iran and Azerbaijan and is approximately 1,072 kilometers long. The river originates in Turkey and flows through Armenia before entering Iran and finally joining the Kura River, which flows into the Caspian Sea. The Aras River is essential for agriculture and water supply for both Iran and Azerbaijan. Additionally, the river serves as a source of power generation through hydroelectric dams and as a means of transportation for trade between Iran and its northern neighbor, Azerbaijan.
Lake Urmia: The Largest Lake in Iran
Lake Urmia, located in the northwest of Iran, is the largest lake in the country and the third-largest saltwater lake in the world. The lake has been facing significant ecological problems in recent years, including a decrease in water levels due to drought and excessive use of water for agriculture. Despite these challenges, Lake Urmia remains a vital source of water for agriculture, fishing, and tourism in the region.
The Persian Gulf: Iran’s Southern Border
The Persian Gulf is a vital body of water for the Middle East and is bordered by Iran, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. It is a crucial waterway for international trade, particularly for the transportation of oil and gas. For Iran, the Persian Gulf is a significant source of oil and natural gas, contributing significantly to its economy.
Hormuz Strait: An Important Waterway for Iran
The Hormuz Strait is a narrow waterway that connects the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is one of the most important waterways in the world, with one-third of the world’s oil passing through it. For Iran, the Hormuz Strait is a crucial strategic point, as it controls access to the Persian Gulf, allowing Iran to monitor and control shipping in the region.
Gulf of Oman: A Strategic Water Body for Iran
The Gulf of Oman is a body of water that connects the Arabian Sea and the Hormuz Strait. It is an essential waterway for international trade, particularly for the transportation of oil and gas. For Iran, the Gulf of Oman is a strategic water body, as it provides access to the Arabian Sea and beyond, allowing for trade with countries in South and Southeast Asia.
Strait of Hormuz: A Vital Passageway for Oil Trade
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway that connects the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is one of the busiest waterways in the world, with over a third of the world’s oil passing through it. For Iran, the Strait of Hormuz is a vital passageway for its oil trade, providing access to international markets.
the Arabian Sea: The Southernmost Part of Iran’s Maritime Borders
The Arabian Sea is a body of water located between India and the Arabian Peninsula, forming the southernmost part of Iran’s maritime borders. It is an essential waterway for international trade, particularly for the transportation of oil and gas. For Iran, the Arabian Sea provides access to international markets and trade with countries in South and Southeast Asia.
The Gulf of Aden: A Strategic Waterway for Iran’s Trade
The Gulf of Aden is a waterway located between Yemen and Somalia, connecting the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea. It is an essential waterway for international trade, particularly for the transportation of oil and gas. For Iran, the Gulf of Aden is a strategic waterway, providing access to the Red Sea and beyond, allowing for trade with countries in Africa and Europe.
The Gulf of Bahrain: Separating Iran from Bahrain
The Gulf of Bahrain is a body of water located between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia, forming the southeastern part of Iran’s maritime borders. It is an essential waterway for international trade, particularly for the transportation of oil and gas. For Iran, the Gulf of Bahrain is a strategic waterway, providing access to international markets and trade with countries in the Persian Gulf region.
Waters of the Persian Gulf: A Key Resource for Iran’s Economy
The waters of the Persian Gulf are a key resource for Iran’s economy, particularly in the areas of oil and natural gas. Iran has significant reserves of these resources and uses the waters of the Persian Gulf to export them to international markets. Additionally, the Persian Gulf provides a vital source of fish and other seafood, contributing to Iran’s fishing industry.
