Iran says it is cracking down on Valentine's Day celebrations and shops engaging in them will be guilty of a crime, according to The Human Rights Activists News Agency.
The exchange of Valentine's Day gifts between males and females also means a crime.
Iranian news outlets reported the police directive Friday warning retailers against promoting “decadent Western culture through Valentine's Day rituals." Police informed Tehran's coffee and ice cream shops trade union to avoid any gatherings in which boys and girls exchange Valentine's Day gifts.
“Symbols of hearts, half-hearts, red roses, and any activities promoting this day are banned. Authorities will take legal action against those who ignore the ban," the state media announced.
Valentine's Day, also called Saint Valentine's Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, is an annual holiday celebrated on Feb. 14.
It originated as a Western Christian liturgical feast day honoring one or more early saints named Valentinus, and is recognized as a significant cultural and commercial celebration in many regions around the world.
