Amir Mohammad Ahmadi and Astiaj Haguighia, a young couple known for their blogs, were sentenced by an Iranian court to a total of ten and a half years in prison for dancing in the street. The video they recorded in Tehran’s central Azadi Square and shared on social media drew swift attention. Interestingly, the name Azadi Square translates from Spanish as freedom, a coincidence that did not alter the authorities’ assessment of the act.
The regime framed the couple’s dance as a show of support for ongoing demonstrations that have swept across Iran since September. The protests began after the death of Mahsa Amini, an event that sparked widespread calls for reforms and drew international attention to the country’s morality police and broader political climate.
An Iranian court sentenced Amir Ahmadi and Astiaj Haghighi to ten and a half years in prison each for publishing the video of their dance beside Tehran’s Azadi Square. The families of the couple have reportedly faced pressure to remain silent about the arrest. The moment was captured on social media and circulated widely, prompting further commentary and concern across various platforms.
Researchers and observers have noted that public dancing is prohibited in Iran, especially for women, who are generally restricted to dancing in the presence of close relatives. In this case, Astiaj Haghighi faced additional charges related to not wearing a headscarf. The legal framework cited by authorities centers on public behavior and perceived moral norms, which many critics argue are used to stifle dissent and curb online expression.
The regime has moved to restrict bloggers and online commentators, signaling that citizens may face travel bans or deportation after serving prison terms. This stance has been reported by independent media outlets that operate from abroad, highlighting ongoing concerns about freedom of expression in the country.
During the trial, the defendants reportedly did not have access to legal representation, and one party was reportedly released on bail while awaiting proceedings. Families and supporters have described a climate of pressure and intimidation surrounding the case, with claims that authorities sought to suppress alternative voices and deter public discussion about the arrest and its circumstances. The broader contention emphasizes how law and order narratives are used to frame acts that are seen as challenging the state’s authority.
The Tehran Revolutionary Court, in its 15th Division, charged the couple with inciting corruption, assembly and collusion aimed at destabilizing national security, and disseminating propaganda against the Islamic Republic. These charges align with a pattern of legal actions used against individuals perceived as threats to political stability or public morality. Observers and rights advocates have urged transparency and due process in cases involving civilians who express themselves through social media or street actions, arguing that such prosecutions chill free expression and infringe on personal freedoms. This summary relies on reporting from independent outlets that monitor developments inside Iran.