Iran's Prosecutor Says Hijab Is Mandatory For All

Mohammad Jafar Montazeri added that adherence to the hijab is mandatory for all citizens, reflecting the Islamic regime's stance on enforcing hijab irrespective of individual beliefs.

"Hijab is not merely a religious and cultural symbol but a firmly established legal requirement. All residents, regardless of their religious convictions, must comply with the law as it applies generally within our borders."

His statement comes amidst escalating enforcement in the streets under Project Nour, the government's aggressive campaign to ensure compliance with hijab. The initiative has seen a notable increase in confrontations between government agents and the public, particularly targeting women perceived as non-compliant with the mandatory dress code.

The renewed enforcement push has sparked widespread criticism both domestically and internationally, highlighting concerns over human rights abuses. Reports from Tehran indicate a sharp rise in incidents where law enforcement has extorted money, committed theft, and engaged in harassment under the guise of hijab law enforcement.

International human rights groups, local activists, and numerous citizens have voiced alarm over the measures, denouncing the oppressive tactics employed by the authorities.

Recently, Tehran hosted a rally aimed at protesting against hijab defiance. Despite widespread advertising, these rallies failed to attract significant participation.

Since the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022, detained by morality police for improper hijab, an increasing number of women have publicly forsaken the hijab, sparking widespread protests across the nation against the Islamic Republic.

Authorities have consistently issued warnings to women to adhere to hijab, threatening penalties for non-compliance. Numerous women have been arrested or summoned, and several businesses have been closed for not enforcing hijab regulations.