Representative of the Supreme Leader in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad: Prevent the Use of Lion Symbols on Graves

Nasir Hosseini, the representative of Ali Khamenei in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, criticized the practice of placing stone lion symbols on graves in the region, stating that since cemeteries are public, municipalities should prevent this practice. According to the Iran Watch website, Nasir Hosseini mentioned in a meeting of the province's Cultural Council that 'the cultural sector needs monitoring' and added, 'Few people have used these symbols, and most people comply, but since cemeteries are public, municipalities should supervise to prevent such actions. Some cases are not against religion, but they should not become a belief.' The social deputy and crime prevention of the judiciary in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad also stated on April 6 that 'for some time now, lion statues have been made and sold to the public for installation on graves, and we inform stone sellers and carvers to avoid any sculpture or sale of such figures and to promptly remove them.' Eisa Hassani added, 'The Friday prayer leader of Yasuj emphasizes that installing lion and other animal figures on graves is an innovation with no religious, legal, or customary basis, and since this matter contradicts the culture and customs of the province, it will be swiftly addressed.' After widespread public protests in the western provinces against this ban, Eisa Hassani on April 10, in an interview with Fars News Agency, explicitly denied his previous statements and the news published in the media in a clear 'retreat,' stating, 'The order to remove the statues from graves and the lack of historical precedent for the stone lion figure is a media lie.' The ongoing struggle of the Islamic Republic against Iranian symbols continues; the installation of stone lions on graves is prohibited. The Israeli Antiquities Authority stated that the clay inscription of 'Darius the Great' is not authentic. A few days after the officials' denial, the filling of the Chamshir Dam began, raising concerns about environmental destruction and Iran's cultural heritage. The filling of the Chamshir Dam occurred in silence and denial from the government. Iranian archaeologists reported the discovery of a 5000-year-old stone workshop in Jiroft.