Geomorphology of the northwestern Kurdistan Region of Iraq: landscapes of the Zagros Mountains drained by the Tigris and Great Zab Rivers

We present the geomorphological map of northwestern part Kurdistan Region Iraq, where landscape expresses tectonic activity associated with Arabia-Eurasia convergence and Neogene climate change. These processes influenced evolution landforms fluvial pathways, major rivers Tigris, Khabur, Great Zab incise Northeastern Mesopotamia Anticlinal ridges syncline trough compose Zagros orogen. The development water wind gaps, slope, karsts in highlands tilting terraces flat areas are main evidence relationship between tectonics, variations processes. During Quaternary, especially after Last Glacial Maximum, fluctuating arid wet periods also local patterns area. Finally, intensified Holocene human occupation agricultural activities during passage to more complex societies over time impacted this Mesopotamia.