Why is the Islamic Republic banning the Lion and Sun emblem amid anti-regime protests? - analysis

Iranian authorities in Mashhad have banned the sale of jewelry bearing the Lion and Sun emblem, the pre-1979 national symbol that has reappeared during anti-regime protests. The directive, issued Monday by the gold traders' union on police instructions, covers bracelets, pendants, and coins. The symbol was removed from the flag after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iranian authorities in Mashhad have banned the sale of jewelry bearing the Lion and Sun emblem, the historic national symbol that was removed from the flag after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The directive, issued Monday by the Mashhad Gold, Jewelry, Silver and Coin Dealers' Union on police instructions, covers bracelets, pendants, and commemorative coins. Shopkeepers have been ordered to inspect inventories, with violations to be handled under existing regulations. The ban comes amid ongoing anti-regime protests that began in December 2025, during which the Lion and Sun has reappeared on flags, clothing, and jewelry carried by demonstrators worldwide, becoming associated with supporters of exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. The article notes that the symbol's appeal extends beyond royalists, offering a connection to pre-Islamic Republic Iranian identity. It also cites an Iran International investigation alleging security forces tortured protesters with nationalist tattoos, and notes that former foreign minister Ali-Akbar Salehi claimed in February 2026 that the symbol belongs to the Islamic Republic. The article observes that nearly 47 years after Khomeini ordered the symbol removed from public institutions, the authorities are still grappling with it.