The Islamic Republic of Iran has made many concessions in its long decline. So does, or doesn’t, the regime, still demand that women wear the veil? Uncovered hair has been the clearest act of dissent in Iran for years. He argued that while the hijab remained a religious duty, it has become a second-tier question with the Islamic Republic in danger. What is emerging in Iran is an Islamic Republic that is becoming less Islamic in appearance, yet more nationalist and authoritarian.