Nowruz Celebration Held in Malekshahi, Ilam Despite Security Threats

The human rights organization "Hengaw" reported that the Nowruz ceremony in Malekshahi, Ilam was held with the participation of thousands despite threats from the Islamic Republic's security agencies. According to the report, Allahnoor Karimi Tabar, the Friday prayer leader appointed by Ali Khamenei in Ilam, had previously warned the organizers of the Nowruz celebrations, claiming that such events are 'in opposition to the culture and customs of society' and are planned by what he referred to as 'the enemy.' Sadegh Hosseini, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Ilam province, also announced that 'no agency is authorized to issue permits for the Nowruz celebration' and warned that identifying individuals active in both the real and virtual spaces is a priority for this military force. Reports indicate that in recent weeks, media outlets have reported on the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence's efforts to prevent the people of Marivan from attending Nowruz ceremonies wearing 'Jamaaneh' and 'Khaki' clothing. According to Hengaw, over 60 young citizens from Marivan were summoned by the city's intelligence office and threatened for not participating in the Nowruz celebrations wearing 'Jamaaneh' and 'Khaki' clothing. Reports also show that in recent weeks, 58 citizens from Piranshahr were summoned to one of the branches of the Islamic Revolutionary Court in this city and accused of 'propaganda against the regime' for holding dances and celebrations and using symbolism. Previously, there have been security and judicial actions related to Nowruz celebrations by the people. Human rights activists reported in Farvardin 1401 (March-April 2022) the summoning and arrest of dozens in Kurdish regions of Iran due to holding Nowruz ceremonies. The reasons for these summons and arrests were to prevent the holding of Nowruz celebrations according to the customary practices in Kurdish areas, including wearing colorful clothing, playing cheerful and epic music, local dances, lighting fires, and dancing around the fire. The Nowruz celebration in Malekshahi, Ilam was held despite security threats, with videos showing men and women dancing and celebrating together at the Nowruz ceremony in the village of Daryazar.