Iconic journalist Mohamed Hassanein Heikal dies at 92

Veteran journalist, author and political commentator Mohamed Hassanein Heikal died on Wednesday aged 92, local media reported. According to sources close to him, Heikal’s health deteriorated suddenly three weeks ago as a result of kidney failure. 

Heikal gained prominence under the presidency of Gamal Abdel Nasser, playing a pivotal role in crafting Nasser’s image and pan-Arabism ideology. He remained close to ruling circles thereafter, becoming one of the most influential journalists in Arab world in the past 50 years. Heikal’s close relationship to Egypt's leaders has led to him being dubbed “the writer of the regime” and “the maker of presidents.”

Heikal served as editor-in-chief of the flagship state-owned Al-Ahram newspaper for 17 years between 1957 and 1974. He was appointed as Information Minister in 1970 for four years, before resigning and returning to journalism.

Due to differences with former President Anwar Sadat, Heikal was imprisoned in 1981 in a governmental roundup of vocal opponents to Sadat's policies. He was later released by deposed President Hosni Mubarak.

In later stages of his life, Heikal became one of the most prominent commentators on Arab affairs. He was also a prolific writer, authoring a number best-selling books Arab-Israeli affairs and Egyptian politics.

Heikal maintained his role as a close advisor to Egypt’s presidents with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and is believed to have played an important advisory role in the deposition of former President Mohamed Morsi in 2013.