Valentine’s Day has been banned in Iran in an attempt to banish Western influence from the loved up and lusting minds of its youth.
Although the Christian Valentine’s Day holiday itself has not officially been banned and love in Iran is not outlawed, authorities have banned any promotion of the day that falls on February 14.
Unmarried couples are not allowed to socialize under Islamic law.
Iranian state-run media reported that gifts, such as cards and boxes with symbols of hearts or red roses were covered under the Valentine’s Day ban.
The annual celebration has become increasingly popular among Iranian youth, which now make up a huge chunk of the population.
It is a money-maker for businesses in a country where 70 per cent of people are under 30.
The new Valentine’s Day guidelines warn Iranians that legal action could be taken against violators.
“Printing and producing any products related to Valentine’s Day, including posters, brochures, advertising cards, boxes with the symbols of hearts, half-hearts, red roses and any activities promoting this day are banned,” the new instructions read.
