Iranian police have shut down a café on Tehran’s Valiasr Street where live music performances were being held, citing what authorities described as the promotion of “deviant sects.”
In a statement, the police information center claimed that the café had used programs featuring elements of Western music to create an environment for what it called “abnormal behavior” and “satanic activities.”
While authorities did not identify the café by name, they alleged that its customers, including young men and women, were observed in an “unusual state” and engaging in what officers described as “satanic” movements.
A number of cafés and businesses have previously been shut down on similar grounds. However, critics say the Iranian government has intensified its crackdown on citizens since the protests that began in January 2026.
A recent wave of executions, lengthy prison sentences, and arrests has raised concerns among human rights activists and organizations.
Human rights groups have repeatedly expressed concern over broad restrictions on individual freedoms in Iran. According to critics, citizens face significant limitations on freedom of expression, access to information, the right to peaceful assembly, and personal lifestyle choices.
Journalists, civil society activists, artists, and political critics have, in some cases, faced arrest, prosecution, or other forms of pressure for expressing their views. Restrictions on internet access and increased monitoring of online activities have also been the subject of criticism by human rights organizations.
