What Is the Punishment for Intentional Property Damage in Iran?

Introduction

If someone intentionally damages another person’s property — like breaking a car window, destroying a house door, setting fire to a garden, or pouring debris on someone’s land — they have committed a criminal offense under Iranian law.

Intentional property damage (called “takhreeb-e amdi” in Persian) is a serious matter with defined punishments under the Islamic Penal Code.

In this article, we explain:

What intentional damage means

How it differs from accidental damage

How to file a legal complaint

What evidence is required

And how Iranian courts handle such cases

Definition of Property Damage in Iranian Law

Article 677 of the Islamic Penal Code (Ta’zirat section):

“Anyone who intentionally damages or destroys movable or immovable property belonging to another person shall be sentenced to 6 months to 3 years in prison.”

This includes damage to:

What Is Aggravated Damage?

In some cases, the punishment is more severe — known as aggravated or “qualified” property damage.

Examples of aggravated damage (Articles 678 & 679):

Damage involving fire or explosives

Use of acid or toxic substances

Damage to public or government property

Destruction of cultural heritage or national monuments

Group or gang-based vandalism

In these cases, the prison sentence may increase to up to 10 years.

Difference Between Intentional and Unintentional Damage

What Evidence Do You Need to File a Complaint?

Strong evidence increases your chance of winning the case. Gather:

Photos or video recordings of the act or aftermath

Witness statements

Prior disputes or warnings (if applicable)

Official damage valuation by a court-appointed expert