Iran is facing a renewed wave of anger and social unrest due to the government’s intensified enforcement of mandatory hijab laws. This crackdown has sparked widespread resistance and exposed deep divisions within the Iranian regime itself.
Repression and Backlash
The recent deployment of the “Mohammad Rasulullah Corps” in Tehran, known for its harsh tactics, signifies a significant escalation. Their mission – to further enforce hijab rules in public spaces like businesses, offices, and public transport – has triggered outrage amongst the Iranian people. This anger is further fueled by the violent arrest and beatings of women who choose not to wear the hijab.
The Regime’s Strategy and Internal Dissent
The regime’s strategy relies on a multi-pronged approach involving various security forces and government bodies. Ahmad-Reza Radan, the regime’s Chief of Police, boasted about the involvement of 32 organizations in implementing the mandatory hijab bill, enacted upon the orders of Supreme Leader Khamenei.
And Hassan Hassanzadeh, the commander of the Mohammad Rasulullah Corps of Greater Tehran, has announced the formation of a new group to further suppress women who defy the mandatory hijab in the capital.
Hassanzadeh dubbed these groups the “Ambassadors of Mehr (Affection)” and claimed that their members have been trained to more stringently enforce the mandatory hijab in business establishments, offices, markets, roads, parks, promenades, and public transportation in Tehran. However, this very approach is facing criticism from within the regime.
Questioning Legality and Efficacy
Several parliamentarians have spoken out against the violent methods employed. Jalal Mahmudzadeh, representing Mahabad, argues that these actions lack legal basis and contradict existing laws. He highlights the “unconventional and illegal” nature of these encounters, questioning the authority under which officers harass and detain women.
Feigning Disapproval at the Top?
Further complicating the issue, some regime officials claim that Supreme Leader Khamenei disapproves of these tactics. Morteza Mahmudovand, a parliamentarian, suggests Khamenei opposes such violence. However, this claim seems hollow given the response from Hossein Shariatmadari, editor of the state-run mouthpiece Kayhan newspaper. He asserts that the Supreme Leader’s office communicates directly and doesn’t require spokespersons. This hints at a potential attempt to distance Khamenei from the crackdown while maintaining control.
Resistance and the High Price of Oppression
Despite the regime’s heavy-handed tactics, resistance continues to grow throughout Iran. The sheer number of women and men opposing mandatory hijab proves the government’s inability to enforce it completely.
Parliamentarians like Mohammad Safari acknowledge the ineffectiveness of solely relying on law enforcement and judicial pressure. He warns that “this method will never work” and highlights the “high price” paid in 2022 due to similar tactics.
A Parliament Silenced?
The regime’s control over the narrative is further exposed by Ahmad Alirezabeigi’s testimony. He reveals being disqualified from questioning the Interior Minister about the morality patrol and its violent actions in 2022. This suggests the regime’s suppression extends to silencing dissent within its own parliament.
Conclusion
Iran stands at a crossroads. The government’s escalating hijab crackdown is generating significant social unrest and internal contradictions. While the regime persists with brute force, its failure to win public acceptance is evident. The question remains: how long can the regime sustain this approach before facing a more decisive reckoning from its own people?
