Iranian authorities close a popular Tehran cafe chain over cup designs perceived as referencing the late supreme leader, sparking debate over artistic expression

TEHRAN: Iranian authorities have ordered the closure of a popular Tehran cafe chain over designs on its takeaway cups. The designs were deemed suspicious and seen as referencing the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Judiciary orders led to branches of the Lamiz chain being shuttered and sealed. State news agencies Tasnim and Mehr reported the cafe had “designed suspicious designs against the martyred imam on its products in recent days”.

The cafe issued a statement on its now-closed social media channels denying any political intent. It said the cups were designed months in advance for the Iranian New Year, Nowruz, and had “no connection whatsoever to recent events”.

Media outside Iran published images of the controversial cup design. It featured a colourful empty chair surrounded by a shower of colourful droplets.

Persian-language media based abroad suggested authorities interpreted the empty chair as a comment on Khamenei’s death. It was also seen as a reference to his son and successor Mojtaba Khamenei’s lack of public appearances.

Only the chain’s over 20 branches in Tehran are believed affected by the closure. The Lamiz chain also operates cafes outside the capital.

Cafe culture has surged in Tehran and other major Iranian cities in recent years. These spaces often serve as meeting places and artistic hubs.

Such establishments have previously faced scrutiny from authorities. They have been accused of not enforcing dress codes for women and were focal points during protests.

 The Sun Malaysia