Khanaqin (also spelt Khanakin and Xanaqin) is a city in eastern Iraq, south of Kurdish regions. It is located in the Diyala Governorate, near the Iranian border on a tributary of the Diyala River. Khanaqin is the administrative capital of the Khanaqin District. This District contains several cities such as As-Sadiyah and Jalula as well as hundreds of villages. Khanaqin is divided into two parts by the Alwand River, this river has played a significant role in land cultivation and in establishment of a strong rural society in the area. The river is considered by the people of Khanaqin as a symbol for their unity and Kurdish identity.