The Institute for Palestine Studies mourns the death of Elias Khoury, the editor of Majallat al-Dirasat al-Filastiniyya (the Arabic Journal of Palestine Studies), writer, and novelist, who passed away on Sunday morning, September 15, in Beirut, after a struggle with illness.
Khoury had a rich intellectual, cultural, and literary life, moving between journalism, writing, and teaching. He wrote dozens of novels translated into many languages and gained international acclaim. His works won prestigious awards, establishing his international reputation in literature.
Khoury edited several newspapers, magazines, and periodicals, most notably his roles at the newspaper “As-Safir” and the cultural supplement of the Lebanese newspaper “An-Nahar.” These platforms became cultural and intellectual hubs that attracted writers and intellectuals from across the Arab world.
Elias Khoury was also passionate about theatre. He wrote theatre criticism, followed Arab and foreign theatre work, and managed the “Beirut Theatre,” which hosted significant theatrical productions during his tenure. He supported and developed emerging theatrical talents, integrating theatre into the city’s vibrant cultural fabric.
Khoury has taught at several prominent Western universities, including Georgetown University, New York University, Berkeley University, Columbia University, and the American University of Beirut, which awarded him an honorary doctorate in recognition of his academic and literary achievements.
Elias Khoury was a staunch advocate for Palestine, contributing to the struggle nationally and intellectually. He wrote numerous articles and studies emphasizing the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people to resist the Israeli Occupation and confront colonialism.
As the Editor-in-Chief of Majallat al-Dirasat al-Filastiniyya, he maintained the journal as a free platform, attracting Palestinian, Arab, and Western writers who support Palestinian rights. His editorials and articles in the journal were distinguished literary, political, and intellectual references, complementing his contributions to the Arab press.
Khoury paid exceptional attention to the plight of prisoners and detainees in Israeli prisons, devoting pages of the journal to this crucial cause. Despite his illness and prolonged hospital stay, he continued to supervise the journal’s work with his colleagues on the editorial board, ensuring its regular publication, especially during the genocide in the Gaza Strip.
With the passing of Elias Khoury, he leaves behind a great literary, intellectual, and cultural legacy that future generations will turn to in order to understand the meanings of loyalty, commitment, and Palestine. The Institute for Palestine Studies will publish special dossiers about Khoury and his work in our journals and various platforms.
May God have mercy on him. We extend our sincerest condolences to his wife Najla, daughter Abla, son Talal, grandson Yamen, and siblings.
