- Iran’s parliament approved the principles of a new bill
- The proposal targets communications with hostile foreign media
- Violators could face up to two years in prison
Iran’s parliament has approved the broad principles of a proposed law that would criminalise certain communications with foreign media outlets considered hostile to the Islamic Republic, including organisations linked to the United States and Israel.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the development was reported by Iranian newspaper Shargh, which said the legislation is intended to counter alleged foreign intelligence influence.
Osman Salari, a member of the parliament’s judicial and legal commission, however, cautioned that lawmakers have yet to examine and approve the bill’s individual provisions.
He told the Mizan news agency that reports circulating about the proposed legislation should not be regarded as final until the detailed parliamentary review is completed.
Under the draft provisions, individuals who give interviews to or participate in discussions with designated hostile foreign media could face prison sentences ranging from six months to two years.
The proposal would also require people seeking to speak with other foreign media organisations to notify Iran’s intelligence ministry.
Contact with foreign embassies, international organisations or other non-Iranian institutions without prior notification and written approval from the foreign ministry could attract financial penalties and the loss of certain social rights.
The proposed legislation further seeks to increase punishment for economic offences carried out under foreign direction or supervision.
It would also prohibit individuals from providing information to foreigners without authorisation from the intelligence ministry and impose restrictions on scientific cooperation with foreign institutions that are not included on an approved list.
Another provision would impose prison sentences of up to 30 years on individuals who make policy or legislative proposals under the direction of foreign intelligence agencies if such actions are deemed harmful to Iran’s security or independence.
Cases brought under the proposed law would be handled by Iran’s Revolutionary Courts.
The bill is expected to undergo a clause-by-clause review in parliament. If lawmakers approve the final version, it will then be sent to the Guardian Council for further examination before it can become law.
Iran has previously introduced legislation restricting cooperation with foreign entities. A law enacted in 2025 following a 12-day conflict with Israel increased penalties for alleged collaboration with states considered hostile to Iran.
The latest development comes as concerns over media freedom and contact with foreign organisations remain prominent in the country.
Iranian photojournalist Yalda Moaiery was sentenced this month to 15 years in prison under the 2025 law over allegations that included giving interviews to media outlets classified as hostile and supplying photographs to organisations linked to the United States and Israel
