Iran leader cancels interview with CNN’s Amanpour over headscarf

President Raisi reportedly insisted on a headscarf as turmoil continues over the death of a woman in custody because of an 'improper' hijab [File: Ludovic Marin and Frederick M Brown/AFP]

Veteran journalist Christiane Amanpour says an interview with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was scrapped after he insisted she wear a headscarf, the focus of major protests in the country.

Amanpour, the chief international anchor of CNN who also has a show on United States public broadcaster PBS, said she was ready for the interview on Wednesday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly when an aide to the president insisted she cover her hair.