Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has exercised his veto power to block a harsh law on women’s dress code, which was recently passed by parliament.
He has called on the Supreme National Security Council to review the law.
Presidential advisor Ali Rabiei stated in an interview with the daily Hamshahri that this decision was made considering the societal impact the law would have.
The Supreme National Security Council is the highest institution in the Islamic Republic, which makes decisions on security matters.
Pezeshkian hopes that this body will be able to ease the new law to some extent.
The law, passed by hardline lawmakers, stipulates severe penalties and restricts access to public services for women who do not comply with the head covering requirement.
Stricter penalties are outlined for influential figures, including bans on professional work or international travel, as well as the confiscation of more than 5% of their assets.
Harsh criticisms of the law, even from within the government, have led to delays in its implementation.
Pezeshkian is reported to be opposed to the law, fearing social resistance and the possibility of renewed public unrest.
Observers see the law as a significant challenge between hardline politicians and moderates, and if Pezeshkian fails to overcome the hardline figures, he will face criticism for not fulfilling his campaign promises.
Many Iranian women in major cities are refusing to comply with the strict dress code imposed by the Islamic authorities.
This trend is part of the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement, which erupted in the fall of 2022.
The protests began after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died while in police custody for allegedly not wearing her hijab correctly. /REL