Iranian woman's bold protest against dress code in Mashhad

In a bold protest that has gained widespread attention, a woman in Iran's second-largest city, Mashhad, was filmed stripping naked and climbing onto a police car, yelling at armed officers as she stood defiantly on the vehicle's hood.

The viral footage, shared extensively on social media, depicts her moving onto the windshield and making a brave gesture while officers tried unsuccessfully to remove her, with one officer reportedly reaching into the car for a weapon.

The incident was reported by Euronews, noting that a male officer, armed with an automatic weapon, appeared hesitant to detain her due to her state of undress.

Although the woman's exact motivation remains unclear, social media reports suggest she was protesting against Iran’s increasingly harsh clothing laws for women. Her act has elicited diverse reactions, with some questioning her mental health and others viewing her as a powerful symbol of resistance.

This dramatic event is part of a broader movement across Iran, where women are challenging the stringent dress codes enforced by the morality police. Previously, a woman in Tehran University drew attention by stripping to her underwear, raising widespread discussion online.

In another related incident, at Mehrabad airport, a woman confronted a cleric, removing his turban and exclaiming, "So you have honour now?"

The protest has attracted international attention, galvanizing solidarity for Iranian women’s rights. A post on ‘X’ commended the women’s bravery as a potent statement against tyranny, expressing hopes for freedom from oppression. Others praised their courage and resilience.

Iran's mandatory hijab law, requiring women to cover their hair and bodies, has long been contentious. Non-compliance can lead to fines and prison sentences. The incident has intensified discussions about the morality police and their enforcement of these laws, with criticism even from some conservative figures within Iran.

Last December, legislation introducing harsher penalties for those violating the dress code was passed but has since been halted following global protests from activist groups and organizations such as Amnesty International.