Iran-Egypt Relations, Sunni Representation in Iran, and the Global Uprising for Justice: Insights from Dawood Zareen Pour to Dzair Tube
✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | June 27th, 2024 — In an exclusive interview with the Algerian news website Dzair Tube, Dawood Zareen Pour, the Iranian cultural advisor in Egypt and an Iranian Sunni, addressed various issues concerning the relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Arab Republic of Egypt. He highlighted the extensive cooperation prospects between these two historic nations, emphasizing their deep-rooted and historically close ties.
Additionally, Zareen Pour discussed the latest developments in occupied Palestine, noting the global uprising from the world’s free people in support of Palestine and in protest against the crimes of the Zionist occupation. He stressed the importance of solidarity and the widespread international condemnation of the atrocities perpetrated by the Zionist regime, illustrating a unified stand against oppression and the ongoing struggles faced by the Palestinian people.
Interviewer: How has the appointment of a Sunni cleric as the cultural attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Egypt been received by the Egyptian elite and society?
Dawood Zareen Bor (Cultural Attaché of Iran in Egypt): My designation as the first Sunni cultural attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Egypt epitomizes the progressive vision of our leadership, grounded in the fundamental principles of the Islamic Republic, and is the result of the meticulous efforts of Hojjat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen Dr. Imanpour, the head of the Organization of Islamic Culture and Communications. This appointment has been positively received in Egypt, especially among the intellectual and cultural elites.
The historical relationship between Iranian and Egyptian societies has been impeded by a lack of sustained interaction and by the endeavors of certain factions to misrepresent these relations. This has affected various dimensions, including cultural, social, political, and religious spheres. Nonetheless, my appointment has attracted considerable attention from the Egyptian elite, prompting them to inquire and express appreciation for this decision. It has also shifted their perception of Iran regarding the treatment of different religions and sects. This issue has been frequently underscored in meetings, with my appointment exemplifying the effective utilization of diverse talents within Iranian society in various capacities.
Priorities as the Cultural Advisor of Iran in Egypt
Interviewer: What are your priorities as the cultural attaché of Iran in Egypt?
Dawood Zareen Pour (Cultural Attaché of Iran in Egypt): Iran and Egypt are two ancient civilizations with profound cultural roots and unique soft power, granting both nations a distinguished status on the international cultural stage. Their rich tangible and intangible heritage adds a unique allure, making them attractive tourist destinations for historical and religious sites. There are exceptional capabilities in various fields of science, technology, and innovation that facilitate interaction between academic and scientific institutions in both countries, especially in emerging sciences such as nanotechnology and peaceful nuclear energy, and in various sectors such as energy, medicine, and agriculture.
Arabic and Persian literature are prominent in Egypt and Iran, respectively, serving as effective tools for fostering mutual cultural understanding. Additionally, the media industries, including cinema and theater, boast some of the most venerable artistic productions in both countries. Egyptian cinema is renowned as the “Hollywood of the Arab world,” while Iranian artists have garnered prestigious awards at international festivals. Furthermore, the special role of religious scholars and centers in providing a fresh and simplified perspective on issues at regional and global levels can significantly contribute to accelerating developments in historical and cultural domains between the two nations.
Achieving unity in the Arab world is a shared aspiration among compassionate scholars in both Iran and Egypt, as reiterated by Iran’s Supreme Leader on numerous occasions. Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb has also emphasized this importance in his recent historical speeches. The numerous commonalities, such as the Holy Quran, the Prophet Muhammad, his family, and faithful companions, and collaborative efforts towards the rapprochement of Islamic sects—an endeavor with historical and practical roots in interactions between Islamic religions—can pave the way for realizing the unity and dignity of the Islamic community.
Cultural centers will undoubtedly strive to present an accurate and authentic image of the Islamic Republic of Iran, showcasing its diverse and multifaceted cultural capabilities to the Egyptian cultural community. Conversely, it is crucial to accurately depict the cultural landscape of Egypt in Iran.
Given the ancient and rich cultures of both Iran and Egypt and the multitude of shared cultural values, developing cooperation in various fields—including literature, art, science, technology, travel, and tourism—can serve as a foundation for establishing strong and stable future relations.
Assessment of the Status of Sunnis in the Iranian Government
Interviewer: As an Iranian Sunni, how do you assess the position of Sunnis within the governing system of Iran?
Dawood Zareen Pour (Cultural Attaché of Iran in Egypt): Iran is home to various ethnic groups and religions, and the Iranian government serves as a broad and welcoming platform for all the talents within Iranian society, striving diligently for the nation’s dignity. Sunnis are an integral part of the Iranian Islamic community across our beloved country, from north to south and east to west, forming a part of the Iranian identity. Like all Iranians, Sunnis benefit from the Islamic Republic’s services and participate in various levels of governance just like other citizens.
The presence of Sunnis in various military ranks, national roles, and key legislative, judicial, and executive decision-making centers is a testament to this. For instance, notable figures include Admiral Shahram Irani, the Commander of the Iranian Navy; Molavi Nazir Ahmad Salami, a member of the Assembly of Experts; Molavi Madani, the head of the Supreme Council of the World Forum for Proximity of Islamic Schools of Thought; Dr. Saleh Adebi and Ms. Reigi, former ambassadors; as well as numerous parliamentary representatives who have held various positions across different parliamentary and judicial terms. Additionally, prominent university presidents, governors, and others further illustrate the significant role of Sunnis in the governance of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
These examples highlight the esteemed position of Sunnis within the governance framework of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Undoubtedly, the prosperity of any nation lies in the full utilization of the capabilities of all its citizens, a principle that has always been and remains crucial to our dear country.
Evaluation of Reactions in North Africa, Particularly Egypt, to Iran’s Recent Operation
Interviewer: As Iran’s cultural attaché in Egypt, how do you view the responses from North African populations, particularly in Egypt, to Iran’s recent operation?
Dawood Zareen Pour (Cultural Attaché of Iran in Egypt): The successful and significant “Operation Al-Waad Al-Sadiq” occurred under exceptional and pivotal circumstances, bringing joy and happiness to supporters of the Islamic Republic of Iran worldwide. In the initial hours following the operation, we received an overwhelming number of messages from intellectuals and cultural elites in Egypt, who expressed great enthusiasm for this historic action. Subsequently, various cultural, political, and media figures from different factions analyzed the operation extensively in both virtual spaces and media outlets.
It was entirely expected that Egyptians, viewing the Zionist entity as a primary adversary, would respond with enthusiasm. This sentiment is widely echoed across various sectors and social strata in Egypt, contributing significantly to the widespread support for Operation Al-Waad Al-Sadiq. This support unsettled Zionist media fronts, prompting frantic efforts to distort the narrative.
As a result, the online sphere became a battleground where supporters and critics debated fiercely, reflecting diverse viewpoints and opinions. Free-thinking intellectuals in Egyptian society, particularly those sympathetic to Iran and the resistance axis in the Arab world, have shown a positive outlook. This has challenged competing currents and groups who failed in their attempts to portray Iran negatively.
The Resistance Axis Beyond Sectarian Boundaries: Iran’s Perspective and Global Impact
Interviewer: Some argue that the resistance axis is limited to the Shiite movement led by Iran alone, but Iran sees the resistance axis as broader than just Shiites. What is your assessment in this regard?
Dawood Zareen Pour (Cultural Attaché of Iran in Egypt): One of the most accurate explanations that has emerged during this period is the term “the deluge or ‘flood’ of the free.” In reality, amidst the current global circumstances, the United States and the West are attempting to support the Zionist entity, marshaling both overt and covert strength to sustain this entity. Anyone standing on the side of truth and condemning the crimes of this entity is undoubtedly free. What has been observed on the ground confirms this reality. Developments in American universities these days have been akin to the final straw that broke the camel’s back for the Zionist entity. The presence of the Islamic nation across various parts of the world signifies the strength of the resistance front globally and their desire to uphold the rights of the oppressed Palestinian people.
About Dzair Tube Media Group
Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.
A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.
With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.
Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has garnered substantial viewership for its varied programs. Hosting interactive discussions with influential figures across different domains, the platform actively fosters public discourse and engagement. Beyond news coverage, Dzair Tube extends its commitment to the production of marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership programs.
The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.
Honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.
