Iraq, officially the Republic of Iraq, is a country located in the heart of Western Asia, forming a critical geopolitical crossroads in the Middle East. It is bordered by Turkey to the north, Syria to the west, Jordan to the southwest, Kuwait and the Persian Gulf to the southeast, Saudi Arabia to the south, and Iran to the east. The country's history is profoundly intertwined with major civilizations, serving as the cradle of Mesopotamian culture, home to the ancient Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. The capital and largest city is Baghdad, which has historically been a center of learning and power. The population is highly diverse, comprising Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, and various religious minorities, all contributing to a complex cultural tapestry.