The 'Closure Therapy' Train Reaches the Dhows; A Vessel Seized in Bushehr

Continuing the government's crackdown on the public during the Nowruz holidays and their efforts to suppress joy and recreation, the commander of the border police in Bushehr announced the seizure of a dhow with several Nowruz travelers at sea. Abdullah Khosrowi stated to reporters in Bushehr that these individuals had not observed 'Islamic decorum' during Ramadan and had committed 'norm violations.' In this context, the crackdown on public recreation in Qeshm Island has also been prioritized by security and judicial officials following public enthusiasm for travel to the island and the dissemination of attractive images of its attractions and the joy of the people. On March 9, 'Hamshahri Online' reported, citing the cultural heritage manager of Qeshm, that two eco-tourism complexes on the island had been closed for what was described as 'providing unconventional services contrary to Qeshm culture.' This approach has intensified with the overlap of Ramadan and the Nowruz holidays, leading to the seizure of dhows as well. Reports indicate that the closure and seizure of businesses under the pretext of Ramadan have peaked in Iran over the past ten days, with media outlets daily reporting statistics on closures in various cities. In this regard, the state news agency IRNA reported yesterday the closure of 24 business units in the city of Rey. Rouhollah Yari-Zadeh, the police chief of Dezful, also reported on March 18 the closure of 15 food and restaurant units. Additionally, on March 20, the state broadcaster IRIB announced the closure of four 'offending' restaurants in Abhar County due to 'non-compliance with regulations regarding business activities during Ramadan.' Confirming judicial actions in various cities, the head of the Hamadan Chamber of Commerce also reported on March 19 the closure of 35 'offending' business units that, according to him, 'disrespected the sanctity of Ramadan.' Continuing these actions, the police chief of Qom Province reported on March 20 the closure of three business units due to what he called 'disrespect' to Ramadan. The 'closure therapy' approach has persisted over the past year with the closure of roadside cafes and eco-tourism sites, creating numerous problems for businesses. A review of recent months' news shows that the Islamic Republic is insistent on continuing 'closure therapy' in response to various issues, especially in the area of mandatory hijab and ideological matters; an occurrence that analysts view as a systematic threat by the government against the property of the people. Following the widespread protests of the past two years and the significant resistance from women and girls against the imposition of mandatory hijab, the Islamic Republic has resorted to methods such as closing business units and denying services to those who do not comply with mandatory hijab. Nevertheless, images and videos shared on social media indicate the failure of the Islamic Republic's policy in enforcing mandatory hijab.