Why Should the Brave, Unveiled Woman Be Seen Only for 12 Days on Iranian TV?

According to Saed News, the head of the Owj Arts and Media Organization, affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, published a provocative editorial in Farhikhtegan newspaper urging the national broadcaster to embrace diverse representations of patriotism. Central to his message was a challenge: why should the image of the “honourable, unveiled woman” grace Iran’s television screens for only 12 days, typically during moments of national crisis or unity?

Citing a sweeping range of examples—from the principled message of political prisoner Alireza Rajaei to the defiant courage of Generation Z rappers and unveiled Instagram influencers—the author portrayed a broader, more pluralistic image of national devotion. He also praised outspoken reformists, principled conservatives, and even critical television presenters who have demonstrated courage and loyalty in the face of recent threats to Iran’s territorial integrity.

The piece argues that these varied voices, even when critical of policies such as the parliamentary hijab law, embody a legitimate form of patriotism that should be permanently visible on Iran’s state media. By excluding them, the broadcaster risks sidelining a powerful national asset: the organic unity forged in times of existential threat.

Rather than a mere media request, the author describes this appeal as a “golden opportunity” to restore the legitimacy and authority of national media. In his view, recent attacks by Israel were not aimed at the Islamic Republic as a regime alone, but at Iran as a nation—its land, its people, and its cultural elite. As such, the defense of the homeland must also include the recognition of diverse expressions of loyalty.