Transpressional deformations within the Sanandaj–Sirjan metamorphic belt (Zagros Mountains, Iran)

Polyphase deformation structures of the Sanandaj–Sirjan metamorphic belt in the Neyriz area (Zagros Mountains, Iran) are consistent with dextral transpressional deformation, which is related to the oblique collision between the African–Arabian continent and the Iranian microcontinent. The collision started in the Late-Cretaceous and is continuing to the present day. Quantitative kinematic analyses quartz textures suggest localized shear zones deformed with a significant pure shear component. Spatial orientation of lineation and semi-quantitative kinematic indicators indicate shear zone parallel stretching and shear zone perpendicular shortening. The occurrence of a horizontal stretching component parallel to the deformation zone boundary allows a kinematic model of combined transpression and lateral extrusion for this part of the Zagros orogeny.