The United States has formally sanctioned Iran’s morality police and senior security officials following the death of women in custody, most notably the case of Mahsa Amini, whose death triggered nationwide outrage and global condemnation. These sanctions target the institutions and individuals responsible for violence against women, suppression of peaceful protests, and systemic human rights abuses.

What the Sanctions Targeted

• Iran’s Morality Police — designated for abuse, violence against women, and violating the rights of peaceful protesters.
• Senior Iranian Security Officials — including leaders from the Morality Police, Ministry of Intelligence and Security, Basij forces, and Law Enforcement Forces. These officials oversee crackdowns on civil society and women’s rights activists.

Why the U.S. Took Action

• The sanctions follow the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old detained for allegedly wearing her hijab improperly. Her death in custody sparked widespread protests across Iran.
• U.S. officials stated the sanctions are meant to hold Iran accountable for systemic persecution of women, violent suppression of demonstrations, and violations of free expression and assembly.

Broader Human Rights Context

• Protests following Amini’s death saw women burning headscarves and crowds demanding an end to restrictive laws and government repression.
• Human rights groups reported dozens of civilian deaths during the unrest.
• The U.S. emphasized that these sanctions reflect a commitment to supporting women’s rights and civil liberties in Iran.