The Contribution of Āstān-e Quds-e Razavī to Iran’s Soft Power Projection

Abstract

This article sheds light on the role of Āstān-e Quds-e Razavī, the Iranian foundation that manages the Imam Reza shrine, in furthering Iran’s soft power. Despite the growing body of work on Iranian soft power, the role of Āstān-e Quds has not yet been adequately addressed in the literature. The article is underpinned by three theoretical observations; namely, the key elements of soft power, the soft-hard power nexus, and religious soft power. Based on these theoretical observations, the article analyzes Āstān-e Quds’ contribution to Tehran’s soft power influence, focusing on its activities in the three arenas of education and social services, religion, and political values. The analysis reveals that in the first two areas, Āstān-e Quds engages in various activities to increase the attractiveness of Iran and to create a positive image of the country. In the area of political values, however, Āstān-e Quds’ activities at times juxtapose hard and soft power tools through establishing or strengthening connections with members of groups such as Hezbollah and Ansar Allah (known in the West as Houthis).