The Enduring Genetic Continuity of the Iranian Population Over Five Millennia

Islands of Genetic Diversity
While genetic continuity is dominant, certain areas—particularly the southern islands of the Persian Gulf—present notable exceptions. Genetic traces of African ancestry in these populations suggest interactions dating back to pre-Neolithic times. These findings reinforce Iran’s historical role not only as a transit zone but also as a point of deep human settlement, where ancient populations have interacted, mixed, and evolved over tens of thousands of years.