Iranian Official Warns Against Crossing "Red Lines" During Persian New Year Events

A regional Iranian official has warned against "crossing red lines" in the coming weeks as Iranians prepare for the Persian New Year, which falls during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan this year.

"When organizing concerts, organizers and license holders must adhere to established boundaries, ensuring that no red lines are crossed," Siavash Muslimi, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the northern province of Mazandran, said on March 3.

"This responsibility should be carefully considered by both the [Islamic] Guidance department and the license holder," he added.

Muslimi warned that mayors who fail to enforce the rule should ask the IRGC, who would then take unspecified "actions" in coastal cities.

Iran has a history of canceling concerts due to perceived violations, including displays of joy through dancing or women attending in clothing deemed inappropriate by the authorities.

These concerns around "red lines" have intensified since the 2022-23 Woman, Life, Freedom protests centered around women's rights.

A recent example of censorship is the unexplained and abrupt cancellation of the Koocheh Music Festival's closing ceremony in Bushehr despite the event having prior permission.

The coincidence of Nowruz and Ramadan in 2024 has also ignited concerns about increased restrictions on social activities, especially for travelers.