Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi sentenced to 74 lashes for performing without hijab

The National (UAE)—Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi has been sentenced to 74 lashes by an Iranian court for the offense of performing in public without wearing a hijab, according to a human rights organization that documented the case. Ahmadi performed at a concert that was notably held without an audience present, yet Iranian authorities still pursued charges against her and her team, who also received sentences including a work ban. The sentence drew international condemnation as a stark example of Iran's ongoing crackdown on women's rights despite the mass protests that followed the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. Human rights groups noted the severity of the punishment relative to the nature of the act. The case has become a focal point for advocates demanding the repeal of Iran's mandatory hijab laws.

• The National (UAE) — Ahmadi's bandmates and team members also received sentences, including a professional work ban.
• The Print — Ahmadi was sentenced to 74 lashes specifically for singing in public without a hijab.
• NDTV — Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi sentenced to 74 lashes for no hijab
• The Independent (UK) — A human rights group documented the sentence and publicized the case internationally.