Iranian legislators have backed the principles of a contentious bill that seeks to criminalize interviews with foreign media, according to Reuters. The proposed law stipulates penalties of six months to two years in prison for violations.
The new legislation also aims to restrict communication with foreign media outlets, requiring permits from intelligence authorities for such interactions.
Additionally, the bill would punish contacts with foreign embassies and organizations without prior notification and written consent from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Violations could lead to fines and restrictions on certain social rights.
It also seeks to intensify punishments for economic crimes orchestrated or overseen by foreigners and prohibits sharing information with foreigners without intelligence approval, while limiting scientific collaboration with foreign institutions to a government-approved list.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals could face up to 30 years of imprisonment for political or legislative initiatives perceived as being influenced by foreign intelligence that threaten the country’s security or sovereignty.
Each provision of the bill will be reviewed separately by parliament before the final version is approved by the Guardian Council.
Background
- This move is not the first instance of Tehran criminalizing collaboration with foreign entities. In 2025, following a 12-day conflict with Israel, Iran enacted a law enhancing penalties for suspected cooperation with “hostile states,” as noted by Reuters.
- In August 2026, Iranian photojournalist Yalda Moayeri was sentenced to 15 years in prison on charges including interviews with “hostile” media and sharing photographs with organizations linked to the U.S. and Israel.
