Abbas Khamehyar

Cultural Diplomat and Researcher

Dr. Abbas Khamehyar (born 1340 SH / 1961/1962 CE) is an Iranian cultural diplomat, researcher in international political and cultural affairs, writer, and journalist who has been active for over five decades in the field of cultural diplomacy, interfaith and inter-sectarian dialogue, and Iran's relations with the Arab world. He holds a master's degree from the University of Tehran and a PhD in Political Science from the Lebanese University. Khamehyar served as the Cultural Counselor of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Kuwait, Qatar, and Lebanon (including in the 1990s and again from late 2019 to around 2022), and in these positions played an active role in expanding cultural relations, Islamic-Christian dialogue, introducing Iranian culture, and defending Iran's positions and the Resistance. He has also held positions such as Vice President for Cultural and Social Affairs at the University of Religions and Denominations, Special Assistant and Advisor to the President of the University for International Affairs, and Chairman of the Palestine Committee at the Islamic Culture and Communication Organization. He was also the former editor-in-chief of the Arabic-language newspaper Al-Wifaq. His areas of specialization include the study of Islamic movements (especially the Muslim Brotherhood), Iran's foreign policy, the Islamic Awakening, the Resistance, and interfaith dialogue. Among his important works are the books Iran, the Brotherhood, and the Arab Uprisings: Untold Stories and Surprises, Wounds and Olives (notes on cultural experiences), Lenj and Dorj: Kuwaiti Society and Culture, The Foreign Policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran (published in Arabic), Symphony of Sacrifice, and Like-Minded Believers. He has published hundreds of articles and interviews in Arab and Persian media and is recognized as an influential figure in introducing cultural Iran in the Arab world. In Aban 1404 SH (October/November 2025 CE), a ceremony was held at the Media Cultural Center to honor his five decades of service.