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'Starbucks of Tehran' accused of mocking Khamenei's death with cup designs, 20 outlets shut
short by Anmol Sharma / on Sunday, 29 March, 2026
Iranian authorities sealed all 20 Tehran branches of Lamiz, a popular cafe chain dubbed 'Starbucks of Tehran', after its takeaway cups featured an empty chair with colourful droplets and a "spring is coming" message. Authorities interpreted the design as mocking slain Supreme Leader Khamenei's death and successor Mojtaba's absence from public life. The cafe, however, denied any political intent.