Iranians defy government ban on Valentine’s Day

Mass anti-government protests that shook the Iranian capital of Tehran Monday were related to Valentine’s Day.

Last month, Tehran banned the production of goods related to Valentine`s Day, including gifts with the symbols of hearts and red roses, and activities promoting this day. Authorities threatened legal action against those who ignored the ban.

The decision came as the Iranian government considered the day’s celebration as the spread of Western culture and propaganda that have gained popularity among Iranian youths, who represent 70 percent of the population.

Angry over the ban, some people under age 30 said they would hold protests on Valentine’s Day.

The Wall Street Journal listed Saturday items and activities banned by the Iranian government, including unauthorized mingling of the sexes, rap, rock and Western music, women playing in bands, bright nail polish, laughter in hospital corridors, and the mention of foreign food recipes in state media.