Iranian women defy efforts by hardliners to enforce wearing of hijab

Iranian women are defying government efforts to enforce the wearing of the hijab, a symbol of strict Islamic dress code. This defiance comes amidst ongoing conflict with the United States, economic turmoil, and the reshaping of Iran's hardline leadership. In the height of the conflict, women without headscarves were frequently seen at pro-government events and in state media, showcasing government's lack of concern.

However, recent weeks have seen a resurgence in the call to restore a hardline stance on what conservative clerics and politicians deem as "public nudity." Despite this, many Iranian women continue to flout the rule, with authorities reluctant to crack down for now, as they focus on more pressing issues like managing the war with the US, economic fallout, and reorganizing the security apparatus.

State media have reported on businesses, including cafes, being forced to close for failing to enforce clothing rules. Amnesty International has reported that the Iranian authorities are cracking down on women and girls who defy the compulsory veiling laws, but widespread defiance remains, especially among young women. In July, at least seven cafes in Tehran were closed for not enforcing the mandatory hijab, and authorities are using broad concepts to pursue alleged offenders.