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A cultural fault line over the compulsory hijab has resurfaced in Iran, with many women openly refusing to comply with the government’s mandatory dress code despite renewed pressure from hardliners.
The debate has intensified in recent weeks as conservative clerics and politicians have called for stricter enforcement of hijab regulations.
Authorities, meanwhile, appear cautious about launching a full-scale crackdown, amid concerns that heavy-handed enforcement could trigger further unrest.
During the conflict with the United States earlier this year, unveiled women were increasingly visible in public and even at some pro-government gatherings.
This was partly because authorities and security forces were focused on broader security concerns.
However, hardliners have recently renewed calls for enforcing compulsory hijab rules, describing women appearing without headscarves or wearing revealing clothing as a threat to public morality.
Iranian women have increasingly challenged the restrictions since the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died in police custody after being detained over alleged improper wearing of the hijab.
The incident sparked the nationwide “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement.
Although enforcement has eased in some areas, compulsory hijab remains legally in force. Authorities have used measures including surveillance, vehicle seizures and the closure of businesses to enforce the dress code.
The renewed enforcement campaign has also included morality police patrols and action against businesses accused of violating dress regulations.
In recent weeks, dozens of cafes, gyms and shops have reportedly been closed in several Iranian cities.
Despite the pressure, many women continue to appear in public without headscarves, reflecting a significant social shift in Iran and growing resistance to compulsory veiling.
