Iran’s women are ditching hijab. Why regime dares not stop them

In the midst of Iran's ongoing conflict with the US, the nation is grappling with the increasing number of women openly rejecting the mandatory wearing of the hijab. During the height of the war, women without headscarves were even seen at pro-government gatherings and on state media. For instance, an unveiled woman carrying an Iranian flag in a video claimed her husband was serving in the military and expressed pride in his service.

While authorities grappled with war, economic fallout, and reorganisation of the security establishment under Mojtaba Khamenei, enforcing women's dress seemed to take a backseat.

Conservative clerics and politicians are now pushing for a return to prioritising the hijab. Hardliners accuse cafes and other businesses of failing to enforce clothing rules, with some being shut down. However, the regime faces a delicate situation: while punishing businesses is manageable, sending morality police to confront large groups of women could ignite another Mahsa Amini-style confrontation.

Tehran appears wary of triggering such a confrontation, despite approving legislation that aims for tougher penalties and surveillance over hijab violations. The recent war and economic pressures have led authorities to reconsider their approach, as the focus has shifted from women's dress to addressing economic and livelihood issues.