Iranian President Blocks Controversial Hijab Law Passed by Hardliners

President Massud Peseschkian cites fears of unrest and societal backlash, referring the law to the National Security Council for review.

The proposed law, passed by Iran's hardline parliament, includes severe penalties for women defying the hijab mandate, such as heavy fines and denial of public services.
Prominent figures face harsher punishments, including travel bans, professional restrictions, and asset seizures of up to five percent of their wealth.
President Peseschkian vetoed the law and involved the National Security Council, the highest security authority in Iran, in hopes of revising or mitigating its provisions.
The move reflects a growing power struggle between hardliners and moderates, with Peseschkian's ability to maintain his moderate agenda at stake.
The hijab law has reignited societal tensions, following widespread protests in 2022 under the slogan 'Woman, Life, Freedom,' with many women in urban areas continuing to defy dress code regulations.