(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) A dress worn by Brazilian model and actress Fernanda Lima at the World Cup draw has led to her being singled out by Iranians on social media. Some in Iran said she should cover up - even "wear a hijab" - but many others have rallied to defend her.
Iranians love football. But those watching the live World Cup draw on state TV in Iran had a very disrupted view - with every shot of Fernanda Lima cut out.
"To be honest with you, the dress of the lady who presents the show does not meet our broadcasting guidelines at all," explained Adel Ferdosipour, the host of the programme.
It is standard practice for state media in Iran to censor, blur - or even digitally alter the clothing of women to make it more acceptable.
But Iranians weren't happy. Cartoons were shared on Twitter and Facebook urging Lima to wear a hijab. And many posted complaints about her choice of clothing to her Facebook page. "Would it kill you if you could wear a decent dress so we could watch the draw as well?" wrote one.
The Asia qualifiers are in Group F, alongside Nigeria, Bosnia-Herzegovina and one of the tournament favourites, Argentina - who of course boast the services of Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.
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Iranians love football. But those watching the live World Cup draw on state TV in Iran had a very disrupted view - with every shot of Fernanda Lima cut out.
"To be honest with you, the dress of the lady who presents the show does not meet our broadcasting guidelines at all," explained Adel Ferdosipour, the host of the programme.
It is standard practice for state media in Iran to censor, blur - or even digitally alter the clothing of women to make it more acceptable.
But Iranians weren't happy. Cartoons were shared on Twitter and Facebook urging Lima to wear a hijab. And many posted complaints about her choice of clothing to her Facebook page. "Would it kill you if you could wear a decent dress so we could watch the draw as well?" wrote one.
The Asia qualifiers are in Group F, alongside Nigeria, Bosnia-Herzegovina and one of the tournament favourites, Argentina - who of course boast the services of Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.
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