The new target of the regime in Iran: Tehran's nightlife
The authorities in Iran have launched an operation to suppress entertainment culture in Tehran. The capital's police chief, Ali Rafiei, has banned live music, DJs, and hookahs in cafes, and announced the closure of businesses that violate the law. The measures come against the backdrop of cafes becoming entertainment hubs for young people amid an economic crisis and war, and include strict enforcement of hijab laws and monitoring of business owners' political views.
The authorities in Iran have launched a widespread operation to suppress entertainment culture in Tehran, aiming to bring nightlife back under the regime's control. The commander of Greater Tehran Police, Ali Rafiei, announced a complete ban on live music, DJs, hookahs, and gambling activities in cafes. He stated that businesses violating the rules would be immediately sealed. The move comes as cafes in Tehran and other major cities have become entertainment hubs for young people seeking an outlet amid a severe economic crisis and prolonged war trauma. Between early August and August 11, at least 42 cases of business closures were reported across Iran, including cafes, restaurants, and shops. In a notable case, the Supreme Court on September 12 confirmed the sentence of Sadegh Saeedinia, CEO of a real estate company and supporter of the January protests, to 12 years and six months in prison and confiscation of all his property. All his cafe branches were sealed. The enforcement is not limited to music and professional regulations; it also includes strict enforcement of the mandatory hijab and monitoring of the political views of business owners and customers.