Iranian Singer Ahmadi Sentenced to 74 Lashes for Hijab Violation

An Iranian appeals court confirmed a sentence of 74 lashes for singer Ahmadi, who performed without a hijab during a concert streamed live on her YouTube channel in December 2024. Ahmadi, 29, appeared in a sleeveless dress, violating Iranian laws that mandate women wear headscarves and modest clothing in public.

The performance garnered millions of views, leading the Iranian judiciary to initiate legal proceedings against her, labeling the act as a breach of the country's legal and cultural regulations. In June, Ahmadi and eight members of her band and production team were found guilty of charges including "offending public decency." In addition to the lashes, the court imposed a two-year ban on audiovisual activities and prohibited all defendants from leaving Iran.

Their appeal was dismissed without a hearing, prompting criticism from Ahmadi's legal team regarding the handling of the case and the severity of the punishment, which they argued was excessively harsh given the available alternatives.