Is it much the same as Iraq? (4)

I believe the answer is:

iran

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'iraq?' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both locations as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'is it much the same as' is the wordplay.
'much' means to remove the last letter (much but not all of the word).
'the same as' becomes 'ran' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'it' with its final letter taken away is 'i'.
'i'+'ran'='IRAN'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for iran that I've seen before include "Middle Eastern country" , "Nation" , "Formerly Persia" , "It was known as Persia until 1935" , "bombless state" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.