An Iranian woman dies because her headscarf was tied carelessly, maybe just slipped? The death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was apparently beaten to death by guardians of virtue because of her “immoral” clothing, confirms what has been clear for four decades: the theocracy of the Islamic Republic of Iran is neither willed by God nor does it serve its people. And even if the woman died not from the beatings of the vice squad but from a stroke – the case speaks for itself. A godly dress code for women? A dress code enforced by force? Absurd, whether in Iran, Afghanistan or Saudi Arabia.
The protests that have now broken out in several cities over the death of Mahsa Amini show the theocratic system that it has to fear its own citizens. And the unconvincing explanations and excuses the government is throwing out prove that those responsible know this perfectly well. The mere fact that the Iranian leadership is still sending moral policemen onto the streets in the 21st century shows that this social system, apart perhaps from the early days, has not yet found widespread acceptance among Iranians.
Yes, undoubtedly there are convinced supporters of the theocracy with its earthly “spiritual leader” at the head of state. But despite four decades of propaganda, brainwashing and the ruthless suppression of any kind of opposition, more and more Iranians have long been frustrated by the theological dictatorship, the lousy economic situation, the all-encompassing corruption and the enormous power of the Revolutionary Guards, who mercilessly exploit the state and economy. The Islamic Republic is unlikely to collapse because of the recent protests. But at some point an event like the death of Mahsa Amini will put an end to the ailing theocratic system.