At least 17 people have been killed in protests and unrest in many cities in Iran. The Oslo-based Iran Human Rights Organization (IHR) even spoke of at least 31 civilians dead. The protests were sparked by the death of 22-year-old Masha Amini, who was arrested by the vice squad about a week ago.
What exactly happened is unclear. She fell into a coma at the police station after being arrested for her un-Islamic clothing and was taken to a hospital. She died there on Friday. Critics accuse the morality police of using violence, which they firmly deny.
Targeted against the government
Since the incident, thousands of people across the country have demonstrated against the government’s repressive course. On Thursday night, protesters clashed again with security forces, who according to eyewitnesses have acted harshly. Before that, the internet was very limited. There are reports of live ammunition, a journalist arrested and an activist arrested.
In addition, author and activist Hamidresa Jalaipur was arrested by the secret service and taken to Ewin prison in Tehran, Iranian news portal Emtedad reported on Thursday. Meanwhile, prominent Iranians in exile have also shown solidarity with the protest movement, including football star Ali Karimi. “Don’t be afraid of strong women. Maybe one day they will be your only army,” Karimi wrote on Twitter.
“Incorrectly worn” headscarf
Since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, there have been strict dress codes in Iran. In the meantime, however, especially women in the metropolises see the rules as quite relaxed and, for example, they only wear their headscarf on the back of their head. Individual MPs have been trying for months to enforce stricter Islamic laws.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
