I know some people aren’t a massive fan of Valentine’s Day, but this is taking it a bit far.
Valentine’s Day has officially been banned in Iran because it supports ‘decadent Western culture’.
Their government has told business owners not to sell the kind of gifts or cards usually exchanged on February 14th and restaurants and coffee shops need to try and ‘avoid’ having couples exchanging Valentine’s Day gifts.
The Iranian government – which last month also banned the use of the word ‘wine’ and even the names of some ‘foreign animals’ – have even warned that those who take part in Valentine’s Day will be prosecuted.
State media said this week: “Symbols of hearts, half-hearts, red roses, and any activities promoting this day are banned. Authorities will take legal action against those who ignore the ban.”
Despite attempts by the country’s moral police to ban the sale of Valentine’s cards and gifts, Iran’s youth in previous years have still taken the opportunity to declare their love for one another.
Saudi Arabia has also sought to stamp out Valentine’s Day but it’s celebrated widely in nearby places like Dubai.
Where is the love?
