Country Profile: Iran

Iran, historically known as Persia, is a Middle Eastern country bordered by the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea. With a population of approximately 88.4 million people, it has a rich tapestry of ethnicities and cultures, primarily dominated by Persians. Iran's economy is traditionally state-controlled but is undergoing reforms in response to significant inflation and ongoing international sanctions. The nation's governance is structured as a theocratic republic, with ultimate authority held by the Supreme Leader, a religious figure.

Geography

Iran is located in the heart of the Middle East, sharing borders with countries such as Iraq, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Its terrain features rugged mountains, vast deserts, and a strategic coastline along two major bodies of water. The climate is predominantly arid or semi-arid, with a subtropical climate along the Caspian coast.

• Total Area: 1,648,195 sq km
• Land Boundaries: 5,894 km, sharing borders with 7 countries
• Coastline: 2,440 km
• Climate: Mostly arid or semi-arid
• Natural Resources: Includes petroleum, natural gas, and various minerals

People and Society

Iran has a diverse population of 88.4 million, with a significant concentration in urban areas, particularly in the northern regions. The official language is Persian Farsi, and the predominant religion is Islam, which shapes the legal and cultural framework of the country.

• Urban Population: 77.3% of the total population (2023)
• Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Persian, Azeri, and Kurdish among others
• Literacy Rate: 86% (2016 est.)
• Life Expectancy: 75.6 years (2024 est.)
• Total Fertility Rate: 1.91 children born/woman (2024 est.)

Economy

Iran's economy has historically relied on its substantial oil and gas reserves. Reforms are underway to address the impacts of inflation and sanctions, which have led to increased poverty rates. The economy is marked by a mixture of state control and private sector activity.

• GDP (PPP): $1.486 trillion (2024 est.)
• GDP per Capita: $16,200 (2024 est.)
• Unemployment Rate: 9.2% (2024 est.)
• Real GDP Growth Rate: 3% (2024 est.)
• Inflation Rate: 32.5% (2024 est.)
• Main Industries: Oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing

Government

Iran is a theocratic republic where the Supreme Leader holds significant power. The political system also includes an elected president and legislative body. The state adheres to both Islamic law and secular laws, reflecting a complex governance structure.

• Capital: Tehran
• Government Type: Theocratic Republic
• Supreme Leader: Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEI (since 1989)
• Legislature: Islamic Parliament of Iran (Majles) with 290 seats
• Voting Age: Suffrage at 18 years

Military and Security

Iran maintains a dual military structure composed of the regular armed forces (Artesh) and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC plays a critical role in both internal security and external military operations, including engagements in regional conflicts.

• Active Personnel: Up to 600,000
• Military Expenditures: 2% of GDP (2024 est.)
• Conscription Age: Compulsory for males from 18 to approximately age 40
• Military Service Obligation: Up to 24 months
• Military Equipment: Includes a mix of domestic and older foreign weapons

Energy

Iran possesses substantial energy resources, particularly in oil and gas. The energy sector is a significant contributor to the economy, despite facing challenges due to international sanctions.

• Total Petroleum Production: 4.112 million bbl/day (2023 est.)
• Natural Gas Production: 265.088 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
• Electricity Generation Capacity: 86.058 million kW (2023 est.)
• Energy Consumption per Capita: 160.779 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
• Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 823.364 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)

Environment

Iran faces numerous environmental challenges, including air pollution and water scarcity. The government participates in various international environmental agreements but struggles with local implementation due to economic constraints.

• Major Issues: Air pollution, deforestation, water scarcity
• Urban Population with Improved Water Sources: 99.4%
• Land Use: 29% agricultural land (2022 est.)
• Forest Area: 6.6% (2022 est.)
• Natural Hazards: Earthquakes, floods, and droughts

Transportation

Iran's transportation infrastructure includes extensive road networks, railways, and airports, facilitating domestic and international connectivity.

• Airports: 177 (2025)
• Railways: 8,483.5 km (2014)
• Civil Aircraft Registration Code: EP
• Total Ports: 18 (2024)
• Merchant Marine Fleet: 965 vessels (2023)

Communications

Iran has a rapidly growing communications sector, with high mobile phone penetration and internet usage. However, media is primarily state-controlled, and access to some international services is restricted.

• Internet Users: 80% of the population (2023 est.)
• Total Fixed Line Subscriptions: 29.02 million (2023)
• Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 151 million (2023)
• Broadcast Media: Predominantly state-run with limited private options

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	88,386,937 (2024 est.)
Area	1,648,195 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$1.486 trillion	2024 est.
Unemployment Rate	9.2%	2024 est.
Energy Consumption per Capita	160.779 million Btu/person	2023 est.
Life Expectancy	75.6 years	2024 est.
Inflation Rate	32.5%	2024 est.
Urban Population	77.3%	2023
Military Expenditures	2% of GDP	2024 est.
Total Fertility Rate	1.91 children born/woman	2024 est.