Mandatory Hijab: Iranian Authorities Intensify Pressure on Businesses

In recent days, the Iranian authorities have stepped up their efforts to enforce mandatory headscarf rules, shutting dozens of cafes, restaurants and other commercial and recreational venues that were failing to comply with the Islamic Republic’s strict dress code.

The Supervisory Department of the Police Headquarters on July 2 released a list of businesses in the southern port city of Bandar Abbas that were sealed for their alleged failure to adhere to "Islamic principles." 

The businesses targeted include five cafes and a sports club. Several commercial units within Bandar Abbas Mall suffered a similar fate.

In Islamshahr, the second most populous city in Tehran province, the local police commander announced that at least 13 businesses have been sealed. 

The cities hit in the most recent wave of closures also include Mashhad, Rasht and Tehran. 

In an act of defiance against the ideology and laws of the Islamic Republic, a growing number of women have appeared in public without hijab since nationwide protests erupted in September last year.

Some defiant women were arrested, summoned by the authorities and faced legal cases, while hundreds of small businesses and shopping malls were shut down for allegedly failing to enforce hijab rules on their customers. Taxi drivers have been fined for transporting women without headscarves, while police and volunteers have issued warnings in subways, airports and other public places.