In many parts of the world, the interest in gambling has been big for a long time. Businesses have met people’s demand for gambling opportunities by opening casino venues. However, this is not the case in all parts of the world. In the middle east, for example, legislation might cause a problem.
Since its opening in 1959, Casino du Liban, based around 25 kilometers north of Beirut, has been one of the most well-known casinos in Lebanon, and the nearby countries. The casino is the only one allowed to host or practice gambling activities in Lebanon. Now when large parts of the world are moving from land-based casinos to online such, parts of the middle east are having trouble keeping up, due to the strict laws.
The Strict Gambling Laws of Iran
One of the strictest counties in the region is Iran. Here, no casinos, land-based or online, are allowed to operate. However, this does not mean inhabitants have no interest in gambling. In fact, gambling has become somewhat of a trend in Iran.
This has to do with the fact that Iranians can play casino games and bet on sports via the internet. Sites like shartino.com review and rank betting sites available for Iranians. However, players must be aware of the risks before entering a gambling site.
What Does the Law Say?
The legal code of Iran is based on Islamic Sharia law. According to these, gambling activities are considered satanic and are, therefore, strictly forbidden. More specifically, Muslims are not allowed to gain wealth by gambling. To earn money by luck goes against the idea that one should make a living by hard and honest work.
Also, the laws mean that gambling might result in the player neglecting his or her responsibility towards society. The reason behind this is that gambling might cause addictiveness, which can have a negative impact on the player’s social life.
These laws only apply to Iranian citizens, which means tourists can gamble from Iran. In the same way, Iranians can gamble when travelling abroad, for example at the iconic Casino du Liban. If an inhabitant were to violate the law within Iran, however, the penalty could be up to six months in jail or 74 lashes.
Prohibited Betting Activities
According to the laws, no form of sports betting is allowed for citizens of Iran. However, not only is betting prohibited, but also some sports. Blood sports, for example, are not legal in the country. However, dogfights and cockfights, for example, are still popular in parts of Iran. These events often take place in the countryside and are associated with betting and are as illegal as any other type of gambling.
It is not only in the countryside illegal betting activities can be found. Via the internet, Iranian bettors who prefer other popular sports can bet from all kinds of places in the country.
Betting Sites with a License in other Countries
Iranian players who want to bet on sports via the internet will have to look for sites with a license in another country, where gambling is legal. In many cases, the sites available in Iran are based in Europe. These sites tend to offer a wide selection of sports to bet on, which might seem tempting. However, it’s important to remember that gambling at a foreign site also is illegal in Iran.