From Sunday, it is mandatory for Iranians to wear face masks in covered public spaces. President Hassan Rouhani has warned the police and the paramilitary militia will be empowered to enforce the rule.
Those who are caught will face sanctions, such as being denied basic state services. Meanwhile, workplaces that fail to comply will be closed for a week.
Towns and cities in Iran’s five provinces have been put back into lockdown as the country faces the prospect of a second wave of coronavirus.
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With more than 237,000 confirmed infections and 11,000 deaths, Iran has been the worst hit country in the Middle East. Still, many reports from the country say the actual numbers are even higher.
BBC