Iran: Struggle Between Moderates and Hardliners Over Hijab Law

Iran: Struggle Between Moderates and Hardliners Over Hijab Law
Iranian President Appears Attempting to Avoid New Protest Wave by Objecting to Strict Hijab Law Despite Parliament Approval
December 15, 2024, 9:21 pm

نساء إيران \ تعبيرية \ متداولة

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian used veto powers against new strict hijab law approved by parliament, coinciding with release of singer Parastoo Ahmadi, detained for performing without hijab.

Pezeshkian, Sunday, requested referring matter to Supreme National Security Council for ruling. Presidential advisor Ali Rabiei told "Hamshahri" daily decision justification based on law's social fabric implications.

Sources reported Pezeshkian rejected law approval anticipating Iranian public anger and renewed protests. Iranian Supreme National Security Council heads country's official institutions, deciding security issues.

Pezeshkian seeks softening new law provisions through Council, even partially. New law, approved by parliament hardliners, included hefty financial penalties and public services denial for non-compliant women.

Severe law criticism, even within government, caused implementation delay, according to German News Agency (dpa). Analysts considered law embodying influence battle between hardliners and moderates, testing Pezeshkian.

Iran experienced massive September 2022 protests following young Mahsa Amini's death in custody, allegedly for improper hijab wearing.

Levant-Agencies

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