In a continuation of a new wave of closures targeting commercial, athletic, and recreational establishments across Iran, four women-only sports clubs in the city of Yazd were sealed by order of the Public Places Supervision Police. While authorities have not officially specified the exact grounds for the action, its timing coincides with an intensified crackdown on businesses, public spaces, and social media pages, raising widespread speculation about a broader coordinated effort.
The official state news agency IRNA reported on Sunday, August 2, citing the chief of Yazd Province’s Public Places Supervision Police, that the four gyms were shuttered due to alleged “disciplinary infractions.” The police official stated that the closures were carried out following joint inspections conducted by police officers and a representative from the Ministry of Sports and Youth, acting under judicial authorisation.
These closures in Yazd come as several prominent cafe-restaurants along Tehran’s Sanai and Iranshahr streets were also shut down and sealed by judicial and law enforcement orders in recent days. This development in the capital, seen by many as a renewed wave of pressure on commercial establishments, has heightened anxiety among business owners and patrons alike.
According to media reports and social media posts, the affected venues in Tehran include notable locations such as Ju Cafe, 1401, Sam Cafe, Do Bar, Nook, Cafe Maan, and Theory. Additional reports indicate that numerous other cafes in the surrounding area have faced similar closure orders, with users sharing images online showing sealed doors and official police notices.