The Neo-Assyrian Empire, spanning from the accession of Adad-nirari II in 911 BCE to the late 7th century BCE, represents the fourth and penultimate stage of ancient Assyrian history. It is often regarded as the first true world empire due to its unprecedented geopolitical dominance and ideology of world domination.^[29] This empire significantly influenced the ancient world, including the Babylonians, Achaemenids, and Seleucids, and was the strongest military power of its time, extending its rule over Mesopotamia, the Levant, Egypt, parts of Anatolia, Arabia, Iran, and Armenia.^[30]

Early Neo-Assyrian kings focused on restoring control over northern Mesopotamia and Syria. Ashurnasirpal II (883–859 BCE) reestablished Assyria as the dominant power in the Near East. His reign was marked by military campaigns reaching the Mediterranean and relocating the imperial capital from Assur to Nimrud. Shalmaneser III (859–824 BCE) further expanded the empire, though it faced a period of stagnation after his death, known as the "age of the magnates".

The empire regained its vigor under Tiglath-Pileser III (745–727 BCE), who significantly expanded its territory, including the conquest of Babylonia and parts of the Levant. The Sargonid dynasty (722 BCE to the empire's fall) saw Assyria reach its zenith. Key achievements included Sennacherib (705–681 BCE) transferring the capital to Nineveh, and Esarhaddon (681–669 BCE) conquering Egypt. Despite its peak, the empire fell rapidly in the late 7th century BCE due to a Babylonian uprising and a Median invasion. The reasons for this swift collapse remain a topic of scholarly debate.

The success of the Neo-Assyrian Empire was attributed to its expansionist and administrative efficiency. Military innovations included the large-scale use of cavalry and new siege techniques, influencing warfare for millennia.^[30] The empire established a sophisticated communication system with relay stations and well-maintained roads, unparalleled in speed in the Middle East until the 19th century.^[31] Additionally, its resettlement policy helped integrate conquered lands and promote Assyrian agricultural techniques, leading to a diluted cultural diversity and the rise of Aramaic as the lingua franca.^[32]

The empire's legacy profoundly influenced later empires and cultural traditions. Its political structures became models for successors, and its concept of universal rule inspired future empires' ideologies. The Neo-Assyrian impact was significant in shaping early Jewish theology, influencing Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The empire's folklore and literary traditions continued to resonate in northern Mesopotamia post-empire. Contrary to the perception of excessive brutality, the Assyrian military's actions were not uniquely brutal compared to other historical civilizations.^[33]