Iran, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered by Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and the Caspian Sea to the north, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east, Turkey and Iraq to the west, and the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman to the south. With a rich history that dates back to ancient times, Iran is known for its diverse culture, significant contributions to art, science, and literature, as well as its geopolitical importance in the Middle East region.