Iranian Cleric Says Democracy Breeds Too Much Freedom

An Iranian cleric has stirred controversy by asserting that "drinking alcohol, sexual misconduct, and illegitimate relationships are the fruits of democracy."

As advisor to the director of Iran's seminaries, Mohammad Hassan Zamani, went on to claim that "Western democracy has made humans worse than animals."

He expressed regret that today's Iranian youth are increasingly drawn towards a democracy lacking the influence of God and religion, characterized "by complete freedom."

Iran's clerical government imposes stringent religious code of social and private life, using courts and security forces to impose hijab and many other restrictions.

Zamani's comments come as since 2022, the global community has been captivated by powerful images of Iranian women rejecting the mandatory hijab following the birth of Women, Life Freedom movement. The women, along with their brothers, friends and activists, have taken to the streets to condemn Iran's authoritarian system that denies fundamental rights, including free elections and free speech, to all citizens. Despite a severe crackdown by the regime involving public beatings, rapes, and hangings, the protesters have remained steadfast.

The government's customary response to any form of protest or peaceful assembly has been to resort to shooting at the demonstrators and arresting thousands of people.

Additionally, in response to widespread defiance of the mandatory hijab, authorities have intensified efforts to enforce the dress code for women. This includes employing various strategies like legal summonses, introducing new legislative initiatives, and applying increased pressure on private businesses to enforce hijab rules.