Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared his commitment to ensuring that the morality police will no longer “bother” women in Iran.
This promise marks a notable shift in policy under Pezeshkian, who is often characterized as a reformist, following the ultraconservative reign of Ebrahim Raisi, who tragically died in a helicopter crash in May.
Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman, died in custody in September 2022 after being arrested for allegedly violating Iran’s strict dress codes, which mandate women to wear the hijab and modest clothing.
Her tragic death ignited widespread protests across the nation, revealing deep-seated frustrations with the regime’s oppressive measures. In the aftermath of her death, hundreds lost their lives during the protests, and thousands were arrested, highlighting the urgent need for change in Iran.
During his first press conference since taking office in July, Pezeshkian emphasized that the morality police were not intended to confront women and pledged to ensure their protections.
He stressed the importance of safeguarding women’s rights, echoing the demands of activists who have long fought against coercive government measures.
In addition to addressing the morality police, Pezeshkian reaffirmed his campaign promises to challenge the enforcement of mandatory hijab laws and relax long-standing internet restrictions that have stifled free expression.
The Iranian government has increasingly clamped down on social media access, especially during times of unrest, viewing it as a threat to its control.
