Iran Arrests Marathon Organizers Over Hijab Violations

Iranian authorities arrested two organizers of a marathon on Kish Island after hundreds of women participated without wearing the mandatory hijab, sparking renewed debate over the country's strict dress code laws.

The event took place on Friday on the southern coastal island, where more than 2,000 women joined thousands of runners in a 26.2-mile race. Videos circulating online showed female participants in red T-shirts with their hair uncovered at the starting line and later posing with medals. Organizers had listed hijabs as optional for women, despite prior warnings from officials. The Athletics Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran had opposed the race in advance, arguing that allowing unveiled women to compete violated the Islamic Penal Code on public decency.

On Saturday, judicial authorities issued warrants leading to the arrests. One detainee is an official with the Kish Free Zone Organization, and the other works for the private company that managed the event. Both were charged with failing to enforce regulations and were released on conditional bail pending investigation. The local prosecutor stated that, despite repeated warnings to comply with current laws,...