Qom-linked centres launch campaign against Azerbaijan

Decisions recently adopted in the Republic of Azerbaijan concerning uniform dress codes and the principles of secularism in public general education institutions have been actively discussed in Iran and have drawn sharp reactions from official and ideological outlets.

TodayPress TV reports that the main discussions on the issue are taking place on social media platforms linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and ideological centres based in Qom.

Media outlets and social media activists affiliated with these organisations are taking the decision out of context and deliberately circulating material claiming that a “hijab ban” has allegedly been introduced in the Republic of Azerbaijan. These propaganda-oriented posts accuse the Azerbaijani state of pursuing policies contrary to Islam.

At a time when Iran is facing significant public resistance and discontent over its compulsory hijab law, the country’s pro-government media are using the issue as an opportunity to divert attention. By targeting Azerbaijan, they are sending ideological messages to their domestic audiences about the importance of preserving Sharia rules.

Through accusations circulated across these media and social media networks, efforts are being made to create an artificial impression of religious confrontation and discontent within Azerbaijan. Calls based on Sharia principles are also being promoted, targeting the country’s secular model of statehood.

Meanwhile, opposition figures living abroad, bloggers and administrators of social media channels are being urged to become more active. They are reportedly being offered any support they may need to ensure broader coverage of the issue.

Platforms that also publish statements by local mullahs are repeating familiar accusations by Iran’s religious and political leadership concerning relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Israel.

Similar appeals are also being circulated by Turkish students belonging to the Alevi religious tradition and leaders of their associations who study at religious centres in Qom, Mashhad, Qazvin and Tehran.

According to some social media and human rights activists, Azerbaijani social media channels, including Tabriz-based platforms “Azərəncümən” and “Tabrizone”, have faced pressure and warnings for failing to publish posts on the alleged “hijab ban in the Republic of Azerbaijan”. They have reportedly also been threatened with a review of their operating permits.