The Iranian government has issued stern warnings ahead of the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, whose arrest and subsequent death triggered nationwide protests last year.
The government has made it clear that any signs of "instability" will not be tolerated.
Year of unrest
Mahsa Amini died on September 16, 2022, following her arrest in Tehran for an alleged breach of the country's strict dress code for women. Her death ignited months of protests across Iran, characterized by the rallying cry "Woman, Life, Freedom." The protests led to clashes in the streets, resulting in the deaths of hundreds, including security personnel.
Government's warning
President Ebrahim Raisi issued a televised warning, cautioning against any attempt to exploit Mahsa Amini's name to create instability in the country.
He stated, "Those who intend to abuse Mahsa Amini's name... we know what will happen to them." Security agencies have also been placed on high alert, with the judiciary promising to identify and apprehend those who plan to take to the streets during the anniversary.
In recent weeks, Iranian authorities have taken measures to prevent potential unrest, shutting down at least five social media pages and arresting six individuals accused of "organizing riots" for the anniversary. Last year's protests posed a significant challenge to the Iranian government, which is already grappling with tensions over its nuclear program and enduring sanctions.
Trauma lingers
Many Iranians are still grappling with the trauma of last year's events. Beyond the violence, thousands were arrested during the months-long demonstrations. Experts suggest that the government cannot rely solely on security measures to address the underlying issues raised by the protests.
Dress code debate
The protests led to a shift in Iranian society, with women increasingly flouting the strict dress code, opting for more colorful and vibrant attire. Authorities responded by installing surveillance cameras and proposing tougher penalties for dress code violations. However, not all voices support these strict measures, including prominent Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi.
While the debate over the dress code continues, many Iranians are more concerned about economic challenges. Inflation in the country stands at nearly 50 percent, and the people's primary demand is the improvement of the economy, according to activist Mohammad Sadegh Javadi-Hessar.
As the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death approaches, Iran remains on edge, with the government determined to prevent a resurgence of the protests that rocked the nation last year.
