
معرفی
Hussein Banai is an Associate Professor of International Studies at the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies, Indiana University Bloomington. He is also a faculty affiliate in the Departments of Political Science, Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures, and Central Eurasian Studies, and a Research Affiliate at the MIT Center for International Studies.
Educational Background:
- B.A., York University, 2003
- M.Sc., London School of Economics and Political Science, 2005
- Ph.D., Brown University, 2012
His research lies at the intersection of political thought and international relations, with a focus on democratic theory, non-Western liberal thought, diplomatic history, and US-Iran relations. He explores how national narratives, enmity, and identity shape international politics, especially in the Middle East. His work draws from the English School of IR and emphasizes reflexive and pariah diplomacy.
His recent publications span books and articles on Iranian political development, US-Iran enmity, human rights, and the role of myth in international conflict. These works reveal a consistent engagement with the interplay between domestic political legitimacy and international relations, particularly in non-Western contexts.
Scientific Awards and Honors:
- Zahedi Family Fellow, Program in Iranian Studies, Stanford University (Fall 2024)
- Visiting Fellow, Perry World House, University of Pennsylvania (Spring 2025)
Banai has served in editorial roles for International Studies Review (co-editor), Iranian Studies (associate editor), and Millennium: Journal of International Studies (deputy editor). He frequently contributes commentary on Iran-related issues to major media outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, NPR, BBC, and CNN. His public engagement reflects his commitment to bridging academic research and policy discourse.
He is currently on sabbatical for the 2024–2025 academic year, holding visiting fellowships at Stanford and the University of Pennsylvania, underscoring his active role in the global academic community.




