Iran’s National Security Council has halted the controversial “hijab and chastity law,” originally set to take effect Friday.
President Massoud Pezeshkian described the legislation as “ambiguous and in need of reform,” indicating a reassessment of its measures.
The proposed law would impose harsher penalties on women and girls for exposing hair, forearms, or lower legs.
Strict dress codes, a national security priority, have historically triggered protests against the Islamic Republic of Iran’s rulers.
Under the new law, repeat offenders and those mocking the rules could face fines and prison sentences of 15 years.
It also requires businesses to report violators of the hijab regulations to the authorities.
Human rights groups expressed alarm, with Amnesty International stating the authorities seek to deepen the existing repression.
During his presidential campaign, Pezeshkian openly criticized the treatment of women regarding hijab enforcement, resonating with many voters.
Former vice-president Masoumeh Ebtekar condemned the law, calling it an indictment against half of Iran’s population.
Last week, the hijab debate intensified after singer Parastoo Ahmadi was arrested for performing a concert without a hijab.
Ahmadi’s arrest sparked widespread backlash, leading to her and her bandmates’ release the following day.
Tensions remain high post-2022 protests following Mahsa “Zhina” Amini’s death in police custody for alleged dress code violations.
Many young Iranian women have defiantly removed their hijabs, challenging the government’s authority despite ongoing restrictions.
Over 300 activists, writers, and journalists condemned the hijab law as “illegitimate and unenforceable,” urging Pezeshkian to honor his promises.
Despite pressure from hardliners close to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, youth continue to confront the regime’s restrictions.
Pezeshkian’s supporters believe the law will fail to discourage defiance among young women and might worsen tensions.
Nevertheless, supporters of the legislation pressure the president to enforce the pause and proceed with the law.
The decision to delay implementation suggests government fears of another wave of protests similar to those two years ago.
