The Economic Times

After 'bloody' protest, viral photos show Iranian women using Khameneis photos to light cigarettes. Here's why

In a bold act of defiance, Iranian women can be seen lighting cigarettes by burning photographs of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Burning the image of the Supreme Leader is considered a serious offence under Iranian law. By combining this act with smoking, an activity long restricted or discouraged for women, the protesters appear to be deliberately rejecting both state power and strict social rules.