Overview

• The ban covers nearly 20 cities, including Ispahan, Kerman and Ilam, prohibiting dog walks in public spaces over hygiene, security and order concerns.
• Hamedan’s prosecutor, Abbas Najafi, declared that walking dogs poses a threat to public health, social peace and well-being.
• Officials in affected cities say they will pursue legal action against anyone who defies the ban.
• A similar 2019 directive in Tehran remains largely unenforced, allowing dog owners in upscale districts to continue outings.
• The crackdown reflects long-standing religious and cultural views that regard dogs as impure and pet ownership as a symbol of Western influence and opulence.