INSTAGRAM A actress has been denounced by Iran for posting photos of herself without a hijab

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Sadaf Taherian was forced to flee the United Arab Emirates last week after receiving a barrage of criticism for publishing the pictures on social media. Iran has now joined the campaign against the actress, incredibly questioning her mental balance and calling her an "offender". Ms Taherian's feed had featured selfies with her hair covered by a head scarf - as required by Iranian law - before she unveiled in protest.

The Iranian Government denounced the actress as "immoral" and revoked her work licence. Ms Taherian has received insults and abuse on social media for posting the images, but said she has no regrets.

INSTAGRAM The actress has fled the United Arab Emirates since posting the pictures

I did not expect this from the people of Iran, from my own culture – to hear so many insults Sadaf Taherian

She said: "I did not expect this from the people of Iran, from my own culture – to hear so many insults. I can only feel sorry for their reaction and I have nothing else to say. "I want to live in a place and live the way that makes me happy." Another leading actress stirred further controversy by coming out in support of Ms Taherian by posting her own photos on Instagram with her hair dyed red.

INSTAGRAM Ms Taherian has been barred from working in Iran

It is understood that Chekame Chaman-Mah has also fled Iran. A spokesman for the ministry of culture and Islamic guidance in Tehran announced that neither woman who be allowed to act and must repent.

INSTAGRAM Ms Taherian has received insults and abuse on social media for posting the images